Commercialisation Associate

Job description

At Ploughshare, we turn cutting‑edge defence and security research into real‑world solutions. We work with scientists, engineers and innovators to bring new technologies to market through licensing, spinout creation and strategic partnerships. Our work is fast‑moving, meaningful and contributes directly to national security, industry growth and wider societal benefit.

As our portfolio continues to expand, we’re looking for Commercialisation Associates to join our growing team on an ad-hoc basis. This role offers the opportunity to work across a wide range of technologies and support innovations that make a genuine difference.

Our four key commercial pillars are: defence and security, health and wellbeing, digital and data, and climate, environment, and sustainability.

We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for experienced commercialisation experts who can operate without close supervision, hit the ground running and deliver results from day one.

This contract role will work on an ad-hoc, project-by-project basis, providing high‑level support to accelerate the transfer of innovative technologies into licences, spinouts, and high‑growth ventures. You will work in close collaboration with Ploughshare’s core commercialisation team, stepping in as needed to support key initiatives and projects.

You’ll bring strong commercial acumen, creative flair, and a start‑up mindset with the ability to identify and shape new opportunities, implement impactful ideas and processes, and navigate complex challenges independently. A relevant degree is desirable, along with a demonstrable track record in commercialising cutting‑edge technologies. Knowledge of Intellectual Property Rights and the patent process is highly advantageous.

In partnership with the internal commercialisation team, you will help transform innovations into scalable ventures, creating measurable impact for the UK, working effectively at all levels and building strong relationships across the MOD and private defence sector.

Role Focus:

• Work with Ploughshare teams to deliver fast-paced technology transfer projects, service contracts and their objectives.
• Provide support in delivering Ploughshare and its customers/clients IP commercialisation strategy into industry to drive business growth.
• Support Ploughshare teams in business development activities to bring new clients into Ploughshare.

Undertake commercialisation activities to support Ploughshare teams including:

• Establishment and launch of spin-out ventures, transforming innovative technologies into independent commercial businesses.
• Identification and management of technology portfolios from our IP source organisations.
• Participate in commercialisation management reviews of opportunities, during which collaborative decisions will be taken as to whether to commercialise each opportunity.
• Develop potential application areas for our technology.
• Undertake market research to establish addressable market sizes by geography, by sector, problem and opportunity areas, by desk-based research and interactions with key industrial contacts.
• Craft and document Value Propositions, Licencing Strategies, Spin-out business plans and necessary collateral to accelerate delivery of impact.
• Support ploughshare teams on licencing deals or spin out opportunities (with guidance from VPs or Commercial Director).

Location:

Ploughshare employees are home‑based, but we get together frequently and believe in the importance of face‑to‑face contact with our clients. As a result, the role involves regular UK travel (including Wiltshire, Hampshire, Manchester, and London) with occasional international trips. All travel required for work is fully funded by the company.

Clearance:

Applicants will need to apply for and possess the appropriate level of clearance as part of their employment. Accordingly, we are unable to accept candidates who do not meet the following criteria:

• Be sole UK nationals (dual nationality will result in sponsorship being denied).
• Hold a British passport.
• Have resided in the UK for a minimum of five years.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. We know that diversity fuels innovation, and we actively encourage candidates from underrepresented groups in STEM, commercialisation and defence‑related fields to apply. If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, we will support you.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

England

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

01-02-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English