Job Overview: Innovation & Entrepreneurship Manager at Imperial College London

Imperial College London, one of the world’s leading universities, is seeking a full-time, fixed-term Innovation & Entrepreneurship Manager to join its newly-established Creative Destruction Lab (CDL)-London team. CDL-London is the College’s latest international hub that focuses on transforming cutting-edge academic research into scalable and impactful commercial ventures.

Operating within Imperial’s broader Enterprise ecosystem, this initiative brings together academic breakthroughs, industry expertise, and entrepreneurial talent to drive innovation in deep technology fields like engineering, physical sciences, and sustainable technologies. Hosted by the Imperial Business School and supported by world-renowned Founding Partner Rio Tinto, this role presents an excellent opportunity to make an impact at the intersection of academic research, industry, and entrepreneurship.

As the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Manager, you will oversee the planning, delivery, and optimization of events and engagements that support the CDL-London’s mission. From strategic event planning and resource allocation to fostering a culture of enthusiasm and continuous improvement, this role is central to ensuring CDL-London’s success in creating a thriving ecosystem for aspiring innovators.

Advice for Applicants: A Perspective for International Education Professionals

If you’re an international education professional, this role is your chance to leverage your global perspective to contribute to Imperial College London’s reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial excellence. Beyond just managing events, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of an ecosystem where international academic researchers and startup founders connect with investors, advisors, and other key stakeholders. Here’s how to position yourself for success in applying to this unique opportunity:

1. Showcase Commitment to Global Innovation

– Highlight any international experience you may have in managing programs, events, or partnerships in the fields of deep technology, innovation, or entrepreneurship. Include examples where you bridged interdisciplinary or cross-cultural teams to achieve a shared goal.
– Familiarity with working in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment is an asset. Include relevant examples, such as collaborations with both academic institutions and industry partners.
– Given CDL’s connection to global cities (Toronto, London, etc.), exhibiting your knowledge of or involvement in international innovation networks can set you apart.

1. Demonstrate Your Event Leadership Skills

– Experience designing and executing events at scale-especially if these involved academics, startups, entrepreneurs, or industry-is highly relevant. Be clear about any logistical, promotional, or strategic elements you’ve managed.
– Provide examples of how you’ve adapted event planning to align with strategic objectives, ensuring maximum engagement and participant satisfaction.
– Speak to experiences where you’ve implemented creative or new approaches to ensure events remain dynamic, accessible, and relevant over time.

1. Leverage Soft Skills and Strategic Thinking

– Imperial College London thrives on collaboration, so interpersonal and communication skills are critical. Specific examples of times you’ve brought diverse groups together to work toward a shared vision can be particularly compelling.
– Use your application to describe how you’ve made strategic decisions about event logistics, resource allocation, or stakeholder coordination while maintaining a focus on client and organizational goals.

1. Highlight Cross-Cultural Expertise

– Imperial’s global reputation, partnered with international stakeholders like Rio Tinto and connections in Toronto, means this role demands cultural competence. If you have experience managing international participation in events or developing programming for diverse global audiences, be sure to include this.
– Additionally, in a hybrid work environment, being tech-savvy and experienced with cross-border virtual collaboration will also serve you as a strength.

1. Tailor Your Focus to Deep Tech & Innovation

– The domain of CDL-London is deep technology and entrepreneurship. If you have prior exposure to these sectors (whether through academic or professional experience), ensure these are at the forefront of your application.
– Specific knowledge or involvement with STEM-focused startups, venture acceleration programs, or academic technology transfer could be especially valuable.

1. Emphasize Long-Term Value

– Beyond events, the role focuses on creating an ecosystem of engagement and excellence. Share your vision for how you could grow this program sustainably over five years, keeping it fresh, relevant, and impactful.

Tips for Applying

• Structure Your Application Strategically: Begin your application with a concise summary showcasing your relevant experience in deep tech innovation, event leadership, and global engagement. Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your achievements in these areas.
• Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with CDL programs worldwide, the role of Rio Tinto as a founding partner, and how Imperial College integrates research with entrepreneurial ventures.
• Emphasize Transferable Skills: If your background is in globalized education, explain how your skills in fostering academic-industry collaboration, program design, and creativity in engaging international audiences apply to the role.
• Connect with the Institution: If possible, attend Imperial College events or CDL-related webinars prior to applying. You can reach out to the contact provided in the job description for any questions to better understand the position and enhance your application.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Beyond the competitive salary of £46,614-56,345 per annum and a generous benefits package (41 days’ annual leave, travel perks, and hybrid work flexibility), this position offers the unique satisfaction of driving real change in how academic breakthroughs translate to commercial ventures on a global stage. As part of Imperial College’s dynamic and inclusive work culture, you’ll have the resources, mentorship, and international exposure to advance your career while contributing to meaningful innovation.

Final Note: If this role excites you, submit your application by August 25, 2025 with a CV and a tailored cover letter that reflects your passion for innovation, international collaboration, and event strategy. Good luck!