Edinburgh Innovations (EI) is the University of Edinburgh’s commercialisation service. Working with academics and other professional services staff, EI seeks to identify and unlock innovation from across the University, partnering with the entrepreneurs to create high quality start-up and spin-out companies, with a focus on the three core university missions of Future Health and Care, Data, Digital & AI, Climate & the Environment.

The newly created role of Director of Venture Creation is an exceptional opportunity to both build on the success of the past and facilitate, drive and re-shape the venture strategy for the future, creating a sustainable ecosystem which drives University, economic and societal impact. Reporting to the CEO, as a key member of the EI Leadership Team, the Director of Venture Creation will lead a team which is a true enabler of new companies; both stimulating the entrepreneurial ecosystem and helping founders in the early stages to shape their vision and build their companies from scratch. The Venture team will support development of initial business plans, connect founders to other entrepreneurs, advisors, NEDs and executive teams. The team will help map out a funding strategy and an investment syndicate, acting as a bridge between research and commercial development.

The ideal candidate will bring to EI a track record of building companies of scale, ideally from a University or research base. Experience within a technology, deeptech, AI or Life Sciences environment will be key to success. The Director of Venture Creation will bring experience of building strategic relationships with investors and funders and of leading, building and inspiring teams; developing strategy and implementing change. At a personal level, the Director of Venture Creation will demonstrate a passion for EI’s vision, together with the entrepreneurial and dynamic mindset to help build a vibrant and entrepreneurial ecosystem. It will be someone with credibility with external stakeholders and the ability to articulate the mission of EI to a wide range of audiences. 

If you would be interested in exploring this opportunity further, please contact Coulter Partners who are working with Edinburgh Innovation on this key hire, ideally including your CV, at [email protected].

Please do not apply via this website.