Business Development and Partnerships Officer

The University of Southampton Business School (USBS) is at the centre of the University of Southampton, a founding member of the UK Russell Group. USBS hosts a vibrant and diverse community of scholars and students across six departments: Accounting, Banking & Finance, Decision Analytics & Risk, Digital & Data‑Driven Marketing, Human Resource Management & Organisational Behaviour, and Strategy Innovation & Entrepreneurship. It delivers an extensive programme portfolio accredited by 14 professional bodies, aiming to develop future leaders with a tangible impact on business and society.

Role Overview

In this varied and challenging role you will work closely with the Associate Dean for Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise to develop a dynamic partnership agenda, creating initiatives that drive the business school forward, showcase impact, and generate revenue.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive business interface and partnerships agenda.
• Identify, secure, and nurture relationships with key businesses and major public sector organisations.
• Promote and deliver United services to partners, embedding collaborations in the core curriculum.
• Develop and support non‑accredited short courses and other enterprise activities.
• Organise and manage conferences, seminars, and master classes to engage the business community.

Qualifications

• Significant experience building and sustaining partnerships in commercial or academic contexts.
• Strong project‑management skills with the ability to think strategically, plan effectively, and negotiate productive partnerships.
• Enterprising self‑starter with a keen appreciation of current higher‑education trends and issues.
• Background in higher education not essential but desirable.

Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous holiday allowance.
• Access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
• Subsidised health and fitness facilities.
• Range of discounts.
• Living in dynamic and vibrant Southampton, with a city that caters for all life stages.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean for Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise (j.giambona@soton.ac.uk).