Programme Manager Uk Sponsorship Available
Job Description
Robert Gordon University is looking for a skilled and experienced Programme Manager to lead the Islands Entrepreneurial Network, spanning Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles. This initiative is a key part of the TalEntEd Islands Growth Deal, a three-and-a-half-year project funded by the UK and Scottish Governments. The programme aims to foster economic growth by creating new businesses, generating jobs, and delivering practical entrepreneurial events and programmes. The Programme Manager will be responsible for ensuring the programme meets its strategic objectives and KPIs on time and within budget on behalf of RGU.
In collaboration with island communities and key stakeholders, including Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Business Gateway, UHI, DYW, local authorities, and businesses, the Programme Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing economic, social, and cultural development across the islands. Key responsibilities include planning, designing, and delivering a portfolio of programmes as part of the TalEntEd work package within the Scottish Government Islands Growth Deal. This includes a Startup Accelerator, masterclasses, a Creative Entrepreneurship programme, a 60+ programme, and a Women in Business programme.
The Programme Manager will oversee a team consisting of two part-time island-based coordinators and a part-time administrator. The role requires flexibility to travel between the islands and to RGU as needed and work outside regular hours to accommodate events and programmes for entrepreneurs. The Programme Manager will report directly to the Head of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at RGU.
The ideal candidate will have an entrepreneurial mindset, be driven, action-oriented, and possess strong local knowledge. A working knowledge of Gaelic would be advantageous, as would a valid driving licence and access to a car.
Although Orkney is the preferred location for this role, exceptional candidates from Shetland or the Western Isles will also be considered.
This position is offered on a fixed-term contract for three years. It may also be available as a secondment opportunity. Please consult your current employer if you wish to explore this option.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Chris Moule, Head of Entrepreneurship & Innovation, at 07855 277742.
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter demonstrating your suitability for the role as outlined in the person specification.
Interviews will be conducted online on Tuesday, 8th April 2025.
Additionally, two part-time Programme Coordinator roles will be available soon. To be notified when these roles are posted, please register on Jobs | RGU | myjobscotland and sign up for job alerts for RGU.
Note: In line with UKVI requirements, sponsorship for this role is available only for candidates currently in the UK on a skilled worker visa with a COS issued before 4th April 2024, those holding a relevant PhD, or ‘new entrants’ under the age of 26, studying, or recent graduates.
