3 x Managing Directors

The Catapult Network was established by Innovate UK to accelerate pioneering work and research in innovation to drive economic growth. Cities, towns and regions thrive on their ability to connect people - to resources, opportunities, ideas and to each other - and thereby create economic, social and cultural value. Today's emerging technologies enable even greater levels of connectivity and pioneering place leaders are exploring how to harness these innovations to boost local productivity and wellbeing, attract investment and stimulate economic growth.

Consequently, the global market for connected places innovations - including smarter use of land, energy efficient buildings, and innovations in mobility - amounts to $3.7 trillion. But despite the huge potential to deliver these high value impacts, developing, testing and scaling such innovations is challenging. Connected Places Catapult exists to dismantle these market barriers and speed the commercial application of innovative research and technologies by UK companies in the built environment, transport, infrastructure and place making industries.

We are recruiting for three Managing Directors to join a newly formed senior leadership team.

The first is a Managing Director to lead our Data and Digital Business Unit. The post holder will be accountable for both the successful delivery of the Business Unit's strategy, business plan, and budget, and for providing technical leadership in data and digital - effectively acting as the organisation's Chief Data and Digital Officer. This includes driving innovation within the sector, managing revenue pipelines, and ensuring the delivery of impactful, high-quality projects. The role also involves building strategic partnerships, overseeing assets and resources, and leading a motivated, high-performing team. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in data and digital innovation, strategic program delivery, and navigating complex government relationships, alongside an empathetic leadership style and a commitment to fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and organisational success.

The second is a Managing Director to lead our Strategy, Communications and Performance Business Unit. The post holder will be responsible for delivering the Business Unit's strategy, business plan, and budget, including strategic assessment, marketing, communications, and portfolio management. This involves positioning the organisation as a thought leader, ensuring effective governance, and fostering collaboration across teams. The ideal candidate will have senior-level experience in strategy, marketing, and government relations, with strong leadership skills and a commitment to diversity, innovation, and organisational success.

The third is a Managing Director to lead our Transport focussed Business Unit. The post holder will lead the Business Unit's strategy, business plan, and budget, including driving innovation, managing strategic accounts, and delivering impactful projects that support the UK economy. The successful candidate will be required to build strong external partnerships, maintain effective governance, and foster collaboration across teams while ensuring operational and financial efficiency. The ideal candidate will have senior-level experience in innovation, government relations, and strategy development, with strong leadership, entrepreneurial skills, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Connected Places Catapult is looking to broaden the diversity of its Senior Leadership Team across some underrepresented groups. All appointments will be made on merit of skill and experience relative to the role.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Connected Places Catapult on these appointments. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit using the following references: MD for Transport (OAHAZC), MD for Strategy, Comms & Performance (OAHAZD), MD for Data & Digital (OAHAZE). Alternatively email . Applications should be received by noon on Friday 6 th December.