We are delighted to offer a rare and exciting opportunity for a Cluster Manager to join the team at Business Durham, where you will lead the Space North East England (SNEE) cluster and play a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of the region’s space and satellite applications sector.
We are delighted to offer a rare and exciting opportunity for a Cluster Manager to join the team at Business Durham, where you will lead the Space North East England (SNEE) cluster and play a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of the region’s space and satellite applications sector.
Funded by the UK Space Agency, the cluster seeks to stimulate and grow the space and satellite applications economy across the North East as part of a national network of regional space clusters. This programme builds on the strong foundations established by the North East Satellite Applications Centre of Excellence, led by Business Durham, on behalf of the Satellite Applications Catapult since 2014.
The North East’s space sector is thriving, with more than 80 companies contributing £171m to the regional economy and employing around 1,340 people, offering an exceptional opportunity for someone who wants to lead the next phase of the region’s growth.
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
As Cluster Manager, you will lead the strategic direction of Space North East England, driving the growth of the region’s space capabilities by engaging closely with organisations across industry, academia and government. You will play a key role in shaping a strong, collaborative ecosystem that delivers real benefits for the North East. A core part of your mission will be to raise the region’s profile nationally and internationally, positioning the region as a leading UK hub for space sector innovation—and as an attractive location for businesses to start, scale, and succeed in this fast-growing market.
You will:
Provide strategic direction for the cluster and the North East Space Leadership Group
Act as a brand ambassador and key point of contact for the regional cluster
Build and maintain strong relationships with regional, national and international partners across the public and private sectors
Identify and develop opportunities to grow the space sector capability and deliver impact for the North East region
We strongly encourage prospective candidates to arrange an informal discussion with either Sarah Slaven, Managing Director – sarah.slaven@durham.gov.uk or Kerry Walker, Business Growth Director – kerry.walker@durham.gov.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED?
You will be educated to degree level or equivalent and/or be able to demonstrate extensive relevant experience.
You will have experience of engaging, developing and managing business relationships together with demonstrable experience on successfully delivering multiple-year, multi-partner projects.
The ability to build relations and establish trust with a proactive and positive approach to customer care is essential.