Programme Associate

West Cambridge | £39,347 | Full-time |Hybrid Working

- Closing date extended: to midnight Sunday 3rd March -

Ever wished you could change the world?

Now's your chance. Join the Founders team at Cambridge Enterprise and help the next generation of world-changing entrepreneurs take flight.

We are at the heart of Europe's most successful research and technology cluster and we're on a mission to bring innovation to life, making a difference to society, the UK economy, and the University of Cambridge. We connect the innovative minds of the University’s academics with the funding, start-up expertise and commercial relationships they need to help their ideas thrive.

Our success stories include an electric vehicle charging technology that's as convenient as filling up with petrol, a programme to prevent ideological extremism, and the world's first treatment for a rare cause of blindness . Now, we need a Programme Associate to join our team at our vibrant West Cambridge site.

You’ll be joining Founders at the University of Cambridge. A new flagship initiative that will use Cambridge’s unique strengths to accelerate the progress of University start-ups by bringing together future founders with global entrepreneurial alumni, local experts and peer role-models, alongside funding and deep tech spin-out expertise.

Your days will be a whirlwind of overseeing early-stage tech businesses, connecting with influential mentors and investors, and navigating the University’s entrepreneurship network. Get ready to experience the full spectrum of helping run a top-tier acceleration program within a world-class research institution.

This is no ordinary desk job. Be prepared to:

• Unearth hidden gems: Scout, identify, and build genuine relationships with the University's most promising entrepreneurial talent.
• Become a bridge-builder: Connect future founders with the perfect network of mentors, investors, and industry experts to accelerate their success.
• Deliver impactful programmes: Shape and deliver world-class programmes that empower our founders with the knowledge and skills they need.
• Master the operational flow: Ensure everything runs smoothly, from recruitment to event management, so our founders can focus on what truly matters.

In return, you'll:

• Witness first hand: See how brilliant ideas transform into impactful ventures that make a real difference.
• Thrive in a dynamic space: Collaborate with a passionate team in a fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment.
• Gain invaluable expertise: Deepen your knowledge of entrepreneurship, programme management, and communication.
• Be part of something bigger: Play a vital role in fostering the thriving Cambridge innovation ecosystem.

This is a small team, we’re moving fast, and things are a little ambiguous as we grow. So, you’ll need to be comfortable with multitasking and driving your own work. But we’ll make sure you are set up for success and supported in your role.

• Communication: You effortlessly connect with people and clearly articulate complex ideas with passion and professionalism to audiences of different sizes, including public speaking
• Network Building: You have demonstrated experience in building and cultivating relationships with different types of people
• Organization: You thrive in detail, manage multiple tasks effectively, and possess a "can-do" attitude.
• Problem-solving: You relish challenges, think creatively, and find solutions that drive progress.
• Team work: You collaborate seamlessly, support your colleagues, and are always willing to go the extra mile.
• Curious: You are curious about the world, and have a demonstrated ability to learn quickly.
• Innovation: You're passionate about making a positive impact and believe in the power of groundbreaking ideas.

These are our ideal requirements, but we know some people are less likely to apply for the role unless they are 100% qualified. At Cambridge Enterprise, we promote a diverse, inclusive and empowering culture, so please apply if you meet the majority of the job requirements.

If you have any questions about the interview process, or if you need any reasonable adjustments, please don’t hesitate to contact Ian, Gemma or Michelle at [email protected]

Our benefits package is impressive. With 30 days of annual leave, a generous University pension, health and lifestyle benefits and a modern office at West Cambridge, you'll thrive in this vibrant academic and innovation community.

• 30 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
• Hybrid role with genuine flexible working – including work from abroad for up to 30 days a year in most roles
• Generous University pension scheme.
• A commitment to personal development including LinkedIn learning.
• Family-friendly policies (including enhanced parental leave & childcare benefits, fertility leave, and pregnancy loss leave)
• Mental health and well-being support including access to free counselling.
• Retail and travel discounts.

- Closing date extended: to midnight Sunday 3rd March -