Executive Director – Liverpool Knowledge Quarter

Executive Director – Liverpool Knowledge Quarter

Business engagement to attract public and private investment into innovation and the knowledge economy

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced, commercially minded relationship builder to lead the strategy development and delivery of the Liverpool Knowledge Quarter (LKQ). Building further on the existing strong collaboration between the five highly-regarded innovation and knowledge generating organisations who co-locate and support this renowned area of Liverpool, the opportunity is to establish LKQ as a national and international destination of choice for business, academic organisations and the individuals involved. The area plans to develop a distinct, unique, open and inclusive sense of place with both visual and physical links to define the clear but permeable boundaries, alongside excellent public realm to facilitate and encourage innovation through the exchange of knowledge and ideas.Responsible to the Director of Research, Partnerships and Innovation at the University of Liverpool, the appointee will provide strong leadership to secure both public and private sector investment, attract wealth generation and employment whilst enhancing the energy and identity of this area. Acting as the single focal point for project development and blue-sky thinking, the incumbent will strengthen LKQ marketing so that it is acknowledged as a physical place of ambition and success and recognised as a centre of excellence for knowledge transfer, business growth and commercially strong innovation. The area offers significant architectural heritage facilitating strong public realm which will require influence, perseverance, partner negotiation and strength of character to deliver. With strong financial acumen, experience of capital projects and broad political understanding, the individual will be a self-starter who also possesses the ability and creativity to maximise delivery from a broad and experienced virtual team.Candidates, ideally qualified to degree level, with a track record of drawing in new investors, partners and securing inward investment, possibly gained in a scientific environment, will demonstrate strong understanding of knowledge transfer and commercial engagement with business, along with the ability to identify, evaluate and develop new opportunities across a wide range of sectors. Previous experience of successful bid and tender preparation will be vital along with demonstrable experience of leading combined strategy development, tactical planning, government interaction and significant commercial delivery. Experienced in partner collaboration at the highest level, the incumbent will demonstrate drive, tenacity, ‘presence’ and strong financial awareness coupled with exemplary communication and presentation skills. Listening, influencing and negotiation will all be key competencies along with strong analysis and decision-making skills and a positive, enthusiastic outlook, which will engage others to deliver exceptional results.Interested applicants should press "Apply for Job" button, fill in the form and send a detailed CV with covering letter quoting current salary.Applications should be received by 5pm on Thursday 10 th December 2015. Initial discussions with the retained consultant will then lead to final shortlist Interviews being held during w/c 18 th January 2016.Job ID: 1507Type: Full TimeLocation: LiverpoolMinimum Education: Degree Level or ..... full job details .....