Opportunity: Chief Executive Officer, Unit M 

07 Jan 2026

We are pleased to announce an exciting opportunity to join Unit M, the University’s new innovation unit, to help unleash the University’s full innovation potential to benefit our region and the wider world.

Unit M is at the heart of the University’s ambitions, set out in our new strategy, to power an inclusive economy. It exists to unlock the full innovation impact of our University on the region and the world around us by accelerating access to world-leading innovation talent and assets, as well as inventing new ways to partner. 

Professor John Holden, Vice President for Civic Engagement and Innovation said, “This is a tremendously exciting time for the University. By 2035 our vision is to be a powerhouse of innovation, and the home of Europe’s most inclusive and impactful innovation ecosystem. Unit M will play a key role in delivering this vision.  

 We are looking to the future with optimism, building on our proud history while developing new ways to scale our innovation and impact, create new sustainable revenue streams, and extend our reach in a rapidly changing world. 

This role is an exciting opportunity to lead the Unit M team and to help us shape the future of the University, our region, and the wider world.” 

Your contribution

The ideal candidate will be an inspiring and forward-thinking leader with:  

• Strong knowledge of innovation ecosystems and how place-based innovation can drive growth. 
• Established credibility and networks across the innovation economy — in the UK and/or internationally. 
• Experience of developing and delivering transformational innovation strategies. 
• A strong track record of leading scaling, multidisciplinary, high-performing teams. 
• A collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence, convene and align diverse stakeholders. 
• Experience engaging with government and policy stakeholders at regional and/or national level. 
• The ability to act as a compelling figurehead for innovation — authentic, ambitious and impact-driven.  

Role details

The role is permanent.

• Salary: Competitive   
• Hours: Full time  
• Location: Oxford Road, Manchester  

Apply or share  

Applications are now open and will close at midnight on Monday, 2 February.  

If you’re passionate about world leading impact – or know someone who is – we encourage you to apply or share this opportunity.   

• Apply  
• Particulars of appointment 

More information  

For informal enquiries please contact: unitmceo@manchester.ac.uk