Head of Strategic Partnerships and Investments

Job Description

About the University

The University of Reading is globally recognized for its excellence in agriculture, food, and environmental research. Ranked in the QS Top 20 worldwide for Agriculture and Forestry and named Sustainable University of the Year 2025, Reading is now launching one of its most ambitious programmes: Agri-food Futures.

This bold research and innovation strategy will transform how we produce, consume, and think about food as we move towards 2050.

Agrifood Futures focuses on three interconnected Priority Research Areas:

Resilient food systems for global security.

Sustainable farming systems that work with nature and climate.

Healthy, sustainable foods that nourish people and the planet.

These will be supported by major investments including:

A state-of-the-art innovation farm.

Advanced food processing facilities.

A participatory platform for nutrition and consumer behavior.

The Role

As Head of Strategic Partnerships and Investments, you will play a pivotal role in delivering the ambition of Agrifood Futures.

You will lead the development of a high-impact ecosystem of partnerships, forging collaborations with key stakeholders across industry, government, academia, and the third sector. Your work will be central to securing significant joint investments and positioning the University of Reading as a leading global partner in the agrifood sector.

Key Responsibilities

Build and maintain transformative partnerships across the agrifood ecosystem.

Secure major co-investments to support large-scale research and innovation programmes.

Act as a key representative of the University at national and international levels.

Provide strategic advice and leadership to align external partnerships with University goals.

Negotiate and manage high-value collaborations with senior stakeholders.

About You

We are seeking an individual with:

A proven record of building partnerships and securing co-investments at scale.

Deep knowledge of the agrifood and agritech sectors, including future trends and innovations.

Strong commercial acumen and the ability to negotiate at senior levels.

Experience of operating successfully in both UK and international contexts.

Excellent influencing, communication, and relationship management skills.

How to Apply

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the University of Reading for this appointment.

Applications must be received by noon on Friday 17 October 2025.

Inclusion & Diversity

The University of Reading is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We support the:

Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality.

Race Equality Charter.

LGBT+ equality.

We are also a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for part-time, job-share, and flexible working are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.