Innovation Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB PURPOSE:

To work with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to help them to adopt new technology leading to
a technology led competitive advantage. The role will provide SMEs with access to a range of
technology workstreams and subsequent new opportunities for innovative products.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. To provide specialist technology based support to SMEs, giving them a technology led
competitive advantage through the implementation of new solutions and exploiting the
knowledge within HVM Catapult (HVMC) and WMG. This will include raising awareness
(running technology demonstrations, workshops and internships) and carrying out collaborative
projects (delivery and project management where SMEs realise ideas and adopt new
technology). This will help businesses to develop new products and generate High Value
Manufacturing Catapult Key Performance Indicators (KPI) such as business engagements.

2. To identify, write and manage complimentary SME project funding applications. This could
include bidding activities under EU programmes (e.g. ESIF, KETs or Horizon2020) and national
programmes (Innovate UK, EPSRC) and identifying partners and funding calls.

3. To work with the Head of SME Programmes and where appropriate the HVM Catapult
workstream leader to develop and update advisory services and content for SMEs.

4. To champion specific technology offerings from the WMG Centre High Value Manufacturing
Catapult assuming responsibility for their development and continuous improvement and to
ensure that engagement delivery data required by Innovate UK (Business Innovation and Skills)
is regularly and consistently available.

5. To keep up to date with SME business relevant developments within the appropriate specialist
HVM Catapult workstream area and ensure that the outputs of the R&D, within the appropriate
specialist area, are useable to SMEs.

6. To develop, manage and maintain client relationships to ensure that the solution is sourced /
implemented and that business engagements and other KPI measures are accurately recorded
and monitored by HVM Catapult. Assist with the overall management of partner relationships
and develop an active interest in our services from potential partners and major
company/corporate clients. This will include the operation of innovation networks.
 PERSON SPECIFICATION

POST TITLE: Innovation Manager

DEPARTMENT: WMG

The Person Specification focuses on the knowledge, skills, experience and qualifications required to undertake the role
effectively.

REQUIREMENTS ESSENTIAL (E) MEASURED BY:

The post holder must be able or a) Application Form
to demonstrate: DESIRABLE (D) b) Test/Exercise
REQUIREMENTS c) Interview
d) Presentation
Possession of honours degree, 2.1 or with significant equivalent E (a)
experience
Experience in a management role and / or with technology consulting E (a,c)
experience
Industrial / commercial experience or previous high-level interactions E (a,c)
with companies (ideally with SMEs) or other user organisations
Experience of working with academic staff gained within a University, E (a,c,d)
or extensive experience working within industry, from large
corporations to small business in a senior technology or engineering
role
Experience and understanding of technologies and processes to a E (a,c,d)
level that commands the respect of senior managers in SMEs and
enables a discussion with specialist academic staff, including the
ability to influence where necessary
Previous project management, planning, resource and reporting E (a,c)
experience, including the ability to manage and report on multiple
interventions
Deep understanding / knowledge of one or more of HVM Catapult E (a,c,d)
Reach workstream areas: Materials Science, Computer Software,
Electronics Design, Manufacturing Automation Specification or the
Internet of Things
Proven ability to deliver, to client satisfaction, innovative solutions E (a,c)
Excellent client relationship management and interpersonal skills E (a,c)
Proven ability to evaluate business needs and quickly identify E (a,c)
technical solutions to solve business problems utilising appropriate
product or service technologies
Proven ability to work in multi-functional teams with partner E (a,c)
organisations and to manage delivery
Excellent analytical, oral and written communication, organisational E (a,c,d)
and presentational skills to all levels of staff
The ability to work on multiple concurrent projects with short E (a,c)
timescales
Educated to postgraduate level D (a)
Experience of the management, delivery and reporting processes in D (a)
Government funded SME programmes
Membership of relevant professional bodies (e.g. IMechE, IET, D (a)
BCS, RSC)
Professional qualifications that reflect competence in relevant D (a,c)
technologies