Full-Time, Fixed Term Until 1 May 2028 | Hybrid Working
Do you thrive on building connections and have a passion for innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration?
Loughborough University is seeking a proactive and highly organised Network Manager to establish and nurture a professional, high-impact network for the ambitious, multi-university Forging Ahead Project.
About the Forging Ahead Project
Forging Ahead is a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionising innovation and entrepreneurship across the Midlands. With a coalition of 15 university partners, this bold project will redefine how research and innovation are converted into real-world outcomes, fostering economic growth and societal impact across the region.
Led by Loughborough University and Midlands Innovation, Forging Ahead will enhance the innovation ecosystem, driving entrepreneurial activity, commercialising research, cultivating investment opportunities, and creating pathways for academic ideas to thrive as high-growth ventures.
This initiative will strengthen regional networks, unlock the region’s innovation potential, and build capacity to support diverse talent — ensuring innovation benefits all Midlands communities. The programme will expand on proven models and pilot innovative approaches to make commercialisation accessible, inclusive, and impactful.
Supported by multi-million-pound funding from Research England’s Connecting Capability Fund and matched contributions from partner universities and local stakeholders, Forging Ahead offers an unparalleled opportunity to reshape the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.
For more information about the project, please visit here.
About the Role
This exciting opportunity gives you the chance to grow and lead the networks of innovators, professionals, experts, and investors that will drive the success of the Midlands-wide Forging Ahead Project.
As the Forging Ahead Network Manager, you’ll work collaboratively with the Research Innovation Office and a dedicated team to connect the project’s ambitious participants with key stakeholders, spanning 15 university partners and beyond. Your role will be pivotal in ensuring the initiative realises its vision of reimagining commercialisation across the Midlands.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement strategies to connect startups and spinouts with innovation partners, investors, and government agencies.
- Plan and deliver engaging network events, workshops, and meetings across the region.
- Produce high-quality virtual learning resources for entrepreneurs and project participants.
- Actively participate in knowledge exchange and events across the Midlands.
- Manage network databases, ensuring effective data collection, compliance, and reporting standards.
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with universities, industry partners, and regional stakeholders.
Location: The role will be based primarily at Loughborough’s East Midlands Campus, with regular travel to partner universities and other project locations. A willingness to travel and flexibility to work occasional evenings is essential for the role.
For a more detailed description of the role, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Is a dynamic connector with a talent for bringing people together.
- Thrives in fast-paced, innovative environments.
- Combines strong project management and organisational skills with a passion for fostering collaboration.
If you share our vision of growing the Midlands’ innovation ecosystem and creating lasting impact, we want to hear from you!
Application Process
Interested? Apply now and help us build a brighter future of entrepreneurship and innovation.
For informal inquiries, please reach out to: [email protected]
Application Tips & Guidance: Please visit our official website.
- Closing Date for Applications: Sunday, 17 August
- Interview Dates: Week commencing 8 September
Join us and make a real difference across the Midlands!