The candidate should meet the following requirementsJob DescriptionRole DescriptionThe ideal candidate will haveInnovation & Growth Lead
Cambridge | Hybrid | UK & International Travel (3–4 trips per year)
(Represented by SoCode Recruitment)
The opportunity
We are supporting a Cambridge-based innovation consultancy that is looking to appoint a senior innovation and growth leader as part of its next phase of development.
This is not a delivery-only consulting role. The focus is on developing business with large, enterprise-level organisations, leading senior client relationships, and shaping innovation agendas at board and executive level.
The role exists to add experienced senior bandwidth to the business: someone who can confidently lead conversations with major organisations, originate and grow client relationships, and take ownership of high-value innovation engagements. This will allow the founder to focus more time on broader strategic growth.
This is a leadership hire in a small, high-impact business. The successful candidate will be comfortable operating with autonomy, ambiguity, and accountability.
What the role will involve:Enterprise business development & senior client leadership
Developing and leading relationships with large, complex organisations across technology, engineering, industrial and consumer-led sectorsOperating confidently at board and C-suite level, shaping discussions around innovation strategy, growth and commercial opportunityOriginating and converting new client opportunities, both independently and alongside the founderActing as a senior external representative of the business in executive meetings, industry events and conferencesInnovation strategy & advisory
Working directly with senior client stakeholders to define innovation agendas, priorities and investment focusAdvising organisations on how to structure, fund and lead innovation effectivelyHelping clients make clear decisions on what to pursue, what to pause, and what not to build, before significant resource is committedTranslating ambiguous, high-level challenges into clear strategic directionProgramme ownership
Taking senior responsibility for innovation engagements once securedActing as the primary client contact, accountable for quality and outcomesWorking closely with technical, engineering and design partners where concepts move towards validation or prototypingContribution to business growth
Helping shape the future focus of the consultancy by sector and geographySupporting the development of long-term client partnerships and repeat workPlaying an active role in the evolution of the business, not just individual projectsWhat we are looking for This role requires seniority and credibility. It is not suitable for someone early in their consulting or commercial career.
You are likely to bring:
Proven experience working with enterprise or blue-chip organisationsA track record of business development, senior client leadership or advisory workConfidence engaging with boards, executive teams and senior decision-makersExperience shaping innovation, growth or transformation conversations at a strategic levelStrong commercial judgement and the ability to build trust quickly with senior stakeholdersBackgrounds of interest include:
Innovation or strategy consultingCorporate innovation or growth leadership rolesTechnology-led advisory or engineering consultanciesSenior roles bridging technology, product and commercial leadershipThere is no fixed methodology requirement. The emphasis is on sound judgement, intellectual rigour, and the ability to adapt approach to different organisations and challenges.
Practical detailsLocation: Cambridge (hybrid working)Travel: Typically 3–4 international trips per yearSalary: Competitive, dependent on experience and seniorityLevel: Senior / leadership hireWhy this role?This is not a large consultancy with heavy structure or hierarchyThe successful hire will have real influence and visibilityYou will work closely with the founder and senior technical leadersThe role offers genuine scope to help shape the future direction of the businessThis search is being managed exclusively by SoCode Recruitment.
For a confidential discussion about the role and the level of seniority required, please get in touch directly with Alex Flory @ SoCode Recruitment
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