An aerial view of Cambridge city centre    Credit: PA

The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP) is seeking to recruit a head of innovation who will be responsible for leading the use of smart technology across the city region.

GCP is the recently created body tasked with delivering the aims of £50m a city deal backed by central government funds. The 15-year programme aims to create 44,000 new jobs and 420 apprenticeships, as well as building 33,500 extra homes across the East Anglian city and its environs.

The partnership’s head of innovation will serve as the “strategic lead for innovation and smart technology [and] will be an integral part of the GCP senior leadership team”.

“You will lead the trialling, testing and integration of technology-led innovation in the delivery of the GCP’s c£1bn investment programme,” the job advert said. “[You will be] tasked with ensuring that the GCP programme reflects the high standard of technological excellence for which the Greater Cambridge area is renowned. You will ensure that innovative technological solutions are at the heart of the GCP’s delivery programme.”

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GCP is formed of the University of Cambridge and three local authorities, representing Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, and South Cambridgeshire, respectively.

The organisation is seeking applicants “with extensive experience of building the case for investment in innovation”.

“You will be required to undertake commissioning and oversee delivery of strategically important projects and programmes,” GCP said. “Areas of focus may include, but are not limited to: sensor technology, autonomous vehicle technology, digital and energy-driven technology and concepts to support sustainable targets.”

It added: “The GCP needs a driven leader who can inspire and collaborate with key civic, academic and business stakeholders with authority in relation to innovative concepts and emerging technology.”

Applications for the post are open until 10 March, with video interviews due to take place about two weeks thereafter. 

Potential candidates can find out more or apply via the Public Sector Jobs East website.