Head of Research & Innovation Services

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (Kew) is a world-famous scientific organisation, internationally respected for its outstanding collections and expertise in plant and fungal diversity, conservation, and sustainable development in the UK and around the world. Kew has two main botanic garden sites: Kew Gardens in south-west London, a top London visitor attraction and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Wakehurst in West Sussex, its wild botanic garden and home to the Millennium Seed Bank.

Kew is now seeking to appoint its first Head of Research and Innovation Services. This is a new position that brings together two existing teams (the Research Services and Commercial Innovation Unit teams) with the responsibility for maximising research impact through delivering excellence in services covering grant operations, research development, innovation and business engagement, and knowledge exchange.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to grow and develop their own team, working in partnership with leadership teams across the organisation to provide strategic direction, operational coordination, and advice in delivery of the Science Strategy.

The post holder should have experience of senior leadership of high-quality research and innovation services and a track record of facilitating the translation and commercialisation of scientific research. They will demonstrate proven leadership experience and ability to manage change whilst inspiring and engaging key stakeholders both internally and externally. They will share Kew's commitment to fostering an inclusive and nurturing culture in which all colleagues have the opportunity to thrive and progress their careers.

Appointment Process and How to Apply

Application is by submission of a curriculum vitae and a covering letter of application, addressing the job description and person specification. Completed applications should be uploaded by the deadline of 11:59pm BST on Sunday 26th January 2025.

We work to ensure that our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible to everyone. This includes making adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.

If you would like us to make adjustments during the application process, please contact Esther Elbro at the following email address: .

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