Time Requirements: Minimally, 10 days per annum

Term: Fixed term role for an initial three-year posting

An entrepreneurial Non-executive Director is sought for UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Enterprise Ltd., a newly formed trading subsidiary of the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), supporting sustainable development through the commercial provision of UKCEH information products, services and research.

Background:

UKCEH Enterprise is a wholly-owned trading subsidiary of UKCEH, the UK's Centre of Excellence for integrated research in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and their interaction with the atmosphere. UKCEH is an independent, not-for-profit research institute, working in partnership with the research community, policymakers, industry and society, to undertake cutting edge research to deliver world-class solutions to the most complex environmental challenges facing humankind. Operating from four UK locations UKCEH employs 360 scientists and has a £40m annual budget.

The Role:

A Non-executive Director is sought to inform UKCEH Enterprise's strategic direction and support its development and growth, thereby facilitating the ambitions of the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. You will also work alongside the UKCEH Enterprise Board to build on the existing research contracts with the private sector and licensed information products to develop new innovative commercial opportunities.

You will have a sound working knowledge of the requirements of Non-executive Directors, including setting the strategic direction of the company, monitoring performance, financial accountability and ensuring effective risk management. As well as a robust and relevant industry network, we are seeking candidates with the following experience and skills.

Experience:

A track record of strategic leadership in the development of new businesses and creation of new income-generating opportunities in the private sector, nationally and internationally, in areas relevant to UKCEH's research, products, and services, preferably with experience of overseas trading subsidiaries and/or overseas organisations

Demonstrable experience of establishing and sustaining effective relationships to achieve organisational objectives, including building business partnerships relevant to UKCEH's commercial opportunities

Successful experience of operating within a board and/or senior executive level in the private sector

A proven track record of sound judgement, strategic thinking and effective decision-making

Impartiality, an ability to respect confidences and evidential commitment to promoting the values of an organisation.

Knowledge, skills and understanding:

• Skills in commercial innovation - from new product and service development to commercialisation - across public and private sectors
• Knowledge and understanding of the markets where UKCEH Enterprise could be active including developing and emerging markets and economies
• Understanding of the range of modes of Knowledge Exchange and thus an ability to inform the organisational strategy to optimise the impact and benefits of UKCEH research, products and services
• The ability to apply knowledge strategically, think creatively and keep mission focussed
• Commitment to the organisation and a willingness and availability to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strong independent judgement and strategic vision
• Able to analyse and understand complex issues and make systematic and rational judgments based on relevant information
• Preparedness to consider the range of perspectives and explore alternative outcomes, respecting alternative views and the value of compromise
• Good understanding of leading major change
• High calibre communication and ability to work effectively as a member of a high performing team.

We seek to achieve diversity in our Board and particularly welcome applications from women and ethnic minorities.

How to Apply:

To apply for this role, please send your CV with a covering letter evidencing how you meet the criteria of the role by an email via the button below.

Potential candidate questions can be sent to Nick Wells, Managing Director UKCEH Enterprise by an email, and will be addressed with the Chair, Linda Naylor.

Interview date: 24th November 2020.

Send CV and cover letter.