SME R&D Manager - UAL Fashion, Textiles and Technology Institute (FTTI)

The opportunity

The SME R&D Manager will have a leading role with the UAL Fashion, Textiles and Technology Institute (FTTI), which will work with industry, from SMEs to global brands, higher education institutions (HEIs) and government across focused activity including sustainability, advanced materials, smart manufacturing and commerce, retail and engagement, digital, and humanities disciplines. The transdisciplinary nature of industrial change, is working to shape a future economy based on environmental responsibility, and good growth.

The SME R&D Manager will also deliver and build upon the established BFTT SME R&D Programme, aimed at supporting the growth and innovation of fashion, textiles, and technology business, through collaborative research and development, and engaging with internal and external partners to deliver existing projects. The BFFT awards portfolio across UK fashion, textiles and technologies SMEs is a total investment of £2.8m.  This role will also be supported by an R&D Coordinator.

About you

Among the criteria are:

• Track record in business development, Knowledge Transfer Partnership / Exchange, and enterprise support within a Higher Education Setting
• Strong understanding and knowledge of technology innovation and application within the creative industries, e.g. biotechnologies, artificial intelligence, supply chain analysis, virtual, augmented reality.
• Knowledge of the UK government’s Innovation Strategy and related national and regional economic development policies/strategies. Knowledge of UKRI and Innovate UK funding mechanisms.
• Experience of planning and managing multiple R&D projects and their successful delivery between industry and Higher Education Institutions.
• Experience with legal and contractual negotiations between HEIs and industry, including Intellectual Property.
• Experience and proven track record of identifying and nurturing industry partnerships and collaborations with partner organisations, HEIs and businesses both nationally and internationally.

Please, refer to the job description attached for the full list of criteria.

Please apply early as this vacancy may close early should sufficient applications be received.

If you have any queries you may contact UAL Recruitment Team via email RKEEstaffrecruitment@arts.ac.uk