Innovation Manager at National Education Collaboration Trust

Job description

Do you believe that the education sector is in need of transformational and lasting change? Are you purposed to step into the ring of problem solvers to help find & implement smart solutions?

This is a unique opportunity to join a small and growing team, with significant public & private sector backing, to set the ball of change in motion.

The Innovation Unit, a startup venture within the NECT (National Education Collaboration Trust) focused on enabling transformational innovation in the basic education sector, is looking for a high calibre candidate to join our dynamic & purposed team. The seniority of the role will ultimately be defined by the relative strength of the candidates that apply. it could be well suited to a young talented professional, who’s looking to be stretched, or a more experienced individual motivated to make change in education.

You’ll be employee number two, so you can expect a startup, fast-paced culture, where we carve our pathway as we evolve. You’ll be exposed to and involved in all major aspects of the unit, so be prepared to roll up your sleeves, tap into your resourcefulness and get involved in a wide variety of initiatives. The range of activities you’ll be expected to tackle will vary from basic administrative support, to project management, research, operations, strategic planning and everything in between.

What we’re looking for

• You’re motivated to make a real change in education
• You’re an excellent communicator, your written word is meticulous and you appreciate the
• art and nuance of communication
• You’re naturally organised and efficient, proud of how your work is received by the world
• You’re happy within project management roles, able to manage relationships, multiple
• workstreams and tight deadlines concurrently
• You’re comfortable with working in teams & following protocol, as well as with high levels
• of autonomy & self direction
• You can run with research projects, have the skill to conduct both primary & secondary
• research, and to collate findings in a meaningful way
• You have a hunger to change things at a systemic level, and understand that real change
• takes times & perseverance
• You take initiative and pride in being proactive
• You’re resourceful and motivated to find smart, simple solutions
• You’re excited to join an evolving team, where change is one of the few certainties
• You’re keen to sign up to a learning journey
• You’re ready for a full, meaningful, fun ride

Specific tasks / skills required:

• Relationship management: Managing direct relationships with our innovator portfolio, operating partner network & participating schools, including participation in and running of meetings.
• Account management: Liaising directly with our innovators on the practicalities of initiating the support the IU is offering them.
• Project management: Handling the day to day administration and implementation of support provided to innovators. Managing practical implementation of promotions, events, workshops and campaigns.
• Research: Conducting ad-hoc research as and when required.
• Administration & operations: Managing the administration and allocated key internal
• processes within the Innovation Unit.
• Strategy: Learn about and contribute to strategic decision making within the unit.