GM Colleges Innovation Connector Network Lead

ABOUT OLDHAM COLLEGE

Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future.

We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive.

Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a committed Innovation Connector Network Lead on a fixed-term opportunity until March 2027, offering the chance to be part of a high-profile, region-wide innovation programme. Employed by Oldham College on behalf of GM Colleges, you’ll work in a hybrid capacity across Greater Manchester, collaborating with multiple college partners and stakeholders. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In this role you will:

• Provide strategic direction to the borough-based Innovation Connectors
• Ensure consistent delivery of structured diagnostics, action planning, referral to innovation partners, AI workshops and Innovation Literacy training across GM
• Monitor and drive performance against KPIs
• Strengthen integration with the GM innovation ecosystem
• Position GM Colleges as credible, trusted enablers of innovation adoption
• Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience in business, innovation, education or a related field
• Proven experience of leading multi-partner or multi-site programmes
• Experience of monitoring performance against KPIs and reporting to funders

WHY JOIN US

We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:

• 49 days’ holiday, supporting work–life balance, including 30 bookable days plus bank holidays, efficiency days, and Christmas closure
• Pension contributions of 16.8%
• Free counselling and wellbeing support
• Retail discounts through our benefits platform
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Paid special leave
• Training and development opportunities
• Free breakfast Fridays
• On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery
• Free parking and electric car scheme
• Cycle to work scheme

INCLUSION AND FLEXIBILITY

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families.

Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.

SAFEGUARDING

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references.

It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

USE OF AI IN APPLICATIONS

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.

HOW TO APPLY

Please review the job description and person specification and submit your application by the closing date.

Join us and be part of a College where together, we invest in your future.