This is a key role in leading the strategy, vision, and delivery on Enterprise and Commercialisation for the flagship CoSTAR National R&D Lab, overseeing the delivery of programmes across the CoSTAR Network. This exciting role involves shaping the future growth of the UK creative industries through inclusive innovation. The successful applicant will be appointed as a Professor of Creative Industries at Royal Holloway, University of London, to serve as Head of Enterprise and Commercialisation for the CoSTAR National Lab.
The Head of Enterprise & Commercialisation (E&C) will develop new programmes to support creative technology business growth across various stages of their development. The role includes working across the CoSTAR Network to broker collaborations and deliver programmes with the Realtime, Screen, Live, and Foresight Labs. The post holder will ensure E&C programmes are industry-leading and aligned with the strategic priorities of the CoSTAR National Lab. They will foster a culture of entrepreneurialism and industry impact, promoting the Lab as a space for de-risking innovation, accessing cutting-edge technologies, and conducting world-leading research. They will collaborate closely with Lab Directors and Leadership to translate research into growth opportunities for the creative sector.
The professorial post requires a candidate with significant standing in the Creative Industries, recognized as a leader with a clear impact on sector development. The candidate should have an extensive network within the creative industries, including creative technologies, producers, content creators, policymakers, and funders. A strong understanding of research funding and a track record of promoting knowledge exchange between industry and academia are essential. The post is a substantive university position, with the Head of E&C role renewable every three years by mutual agreement.
About the National R&D Lab:
The CoSTAR National Lab is the UK’s largest investment in creative industries R&D, funded by UKRI with £51.1 million. Led by Royal Holloway, University of London, it aims to develop a National R&D Lab that equips the UK's screen and performance sectors with the innovation, infrastructure, skills, and expertise needed to compete globally. The Lab emphasizes Equality, Diversity, and Environmental Sustainability in all activities. It includes dedicated Stage and Studio space at Pinewood Studios, advanced creative computing technologies such as AI, virtual production, and 5G. The consortium includes research teams from Royal Holloway, University of Surrey, Abertay University, and the National Film & Television School, with industry partners like BT and Disguise.
What You Will Be Doing:
- Develop, implement, and review the National Lab’s Knowledge Exchange and Commercialisation strategy, tracking progress against milestones and KPIs.
- Design workshops, programmes, and events supporting enterprise and commercialisation in creative industries.
- Liaise with industry to disseminate best practices from Lab programmes.
- Manage and engage with stakeholders across academia, creative technology firms, research organizations, and practitioners.
You Should Apply If You:
- Demonstrate excellent leadership in Knowledge Exchange and Commercialisation within the creative industries, from industry, government, or academia.
- Are passionate about growing creative industries through inclusive innovation, with an interest in emerging technologies like XR and AI.
- Are prepared for a formal interview, including a presentation on your vision and strategy for the programme, based on provided KPIs.
Additional qualities include a positive, problem-solving attitude, ability to manage multiple stakeholders, and experience working with multidisciplinary teams.
In return, we offer a competitive package including:
- Generous annual leave
- Training and development opportunities
- Pension scheme with employer contributions
- Schemes like Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans, and eyesight testing support
- Free parking
The role is based in Egham, Surrey, with significant work at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, near Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance from London.
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