Programme Manager

Programme Manager – Islands Entrepreneurial Network, TalEntEd Islands Growth Deal

Job Summary

Robert Gordon University seeks an experienced Programme Manager to lead the Islands Entrepreneurial Network across Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles, a key component of the TalEntEd Islands Growth Deal. This three-and-a-half-year initiative, funded by the UK and Scottish Government, aims to support economic growth by creating new business ventures, jobs, and delivering practical entrepreneurial programmes and events. The Programme Manager will be responsible for meeting the strategic objectives and KPIs of the programme on time and within budget, on behalf of RGU.

Working alongside the Island communities and key stakeholders such as Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Business Gateway, UHI, DYW and the local authorities and businesses, the Programme Manager will play a crucial role in driving economic, social and cultural development within the Island groups. Their responsibilities include planning, designing, and delivering a portfolio of programmes as outlined in the TalEntEd work package of the Scottish Government Islands Growth Deal, including a Startup accelerator, masterclasses, a Creative Entrepreneurship programme, a 60+ programme and a Women in Business programme.

You will be responsible for managing a team of two part-time Island-based coordinators and a part-time administrator and will be willing to travel between islands and to RGU as required, as well as work unsocial hours for events and programmes to meet the needs of the entrepreneurs. You will work directly with the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Group at RGU, reporting into the Head of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at RGU.

The role would suit an individual with an entrepreneurial spirit who demonstrates drive and determination and a bias for action. Local knowledge is essential. A working knowledge of the Gaelic language would be an advantage as would a valid driving licence and access to a car.

While Orkney has been identified as the preferred location for the Programme Manager, consideration will be given to exceptional candidates residing in Shetland or the Western Isles.

This role is offered on a fixed term basis for 3 years. It may be available as a secondment opportunity, please speak to your current employer to discuss this in the first instance.

If you would like an informal chat about the role before applying, please contact Chris Moule, Head of Entrepreneurship & Innovation on 07855 277742.

To apply please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role as set out in the requirements of the person specification.

Interviews will take place online on Tuesday 8th April 2025.

We will have 2 x Part Time Programme Coordinator roles coming shortly, please register on Jobs | RGU | myjobscotland and sign up for job alerts for RGU to be notified when these are available.

In order to meet UKVI minimum requirements, sponsorship would only be available for this role for those candidates who are currently based within the UK on a skilled worker visa with a COS issued before 04 April 2024, hold a relevant PhD, or are a ‘new entrant’ who is under 26, studying or a recent graduate.

Salary: £46,735 – £55,755 GBP per year

Position Type: Full Time – 35 hours per week, fixed term for 3 years

To find out more and apply please visit Programme Manager – RGU07331

Closing Date: 30 March 2025