As Centre Director, you'll be at the heart of a dynamic innovation ecosystem. You will:
1. Lead the strategic direction and performance of the centre, ensuring it meets commercial, operational, and community goals.
2. Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including our client Cumberland Council, local partners, and the wider innovation network.
3. Oversee the delivery of business support programmes, events, and community-building initiatives that help SMEs thrive.
4. Manage the centre team, ensuring high standards of service, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
5. Drive financial performance, reporting, and planning to maximise return for both Oxford Innovation Space and Cumberland Council.
Required skills and experience include:
* Proven leadership experience in a commercial, innovation, or business support environment.
* Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.
* A deep understanding of SME needs, economic development, and innovation ecosystems.
* Experience managing budgets, contracts, and operational performance.
* A collaborative, forward-thinking mindset with a passion for supporting business growth.
About Oxford Innovation Space:
We create and manage inspiring workspaces where ambitious businesses can grow. With over 35 years of experience and a network of 30+ innovation centres across the UK and Ireland, we support more than 850 SMEs across 35+ sectors. We are now looking for a strategic and commercially minded Centre Director to lead our new Workington Innovation Centre and help shape the future of innovation in Cumbria.
We offer more than just a job — we offer a place where you can grow, contribute, and make a difference. Our benefits include:
* Salary of up to £50,000 per annum, depending on experience
* 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays
* Long-term sickness and life assurance cover
* Flexible benefits package, including options to exchange salary for benefits such as:
o Matched pension contributions up to 5%
o Swap salary for extra holiday or reduced hours
o Private medical and dental insurances
o Health screening
o Electric vehicle leasing
o Bicycle purchase
o Charitable Giving
Additional perks include volunteering days, wellbeing days, a flexible and inclusive culture, and access to discounts on high street and holiday providers.
Ready to Make a Difference?
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