Business Engagement Officer

University of York; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in York is seeking a Relationship-Building and Marketing Lead to enhance engagement with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. The candidate will develop and deliver marketing campaigns, coordinate events, and maintain relationships with business networks. Ideal applicants have a Level 3 qualification, strong communication skills, and a proactive approach to work. This role supports diverse and inclusive community engagement with a focus on positive economic impact.

Benefits

Family-friendly flexible working arrangements

Inclusive facilities to support staff

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of business support networks and programmes.
• Confidence presenting to business audiences.
• Proactive approach to delivering high-quality work.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver creative marketing campaigns targeting SMEs.
• Plan, coordinate and run events promoting Enterprise Works services.
• Build and maintain relationships with business networks.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to analyse data

Digital literacy

Education

Level 3 qualification (or equivalent experience)

Job description

Overview

The University’s vision for enterprise is a diverse, connected community supporting enterprise and entrepreneurship that transforms lives, economies and communities.

Enterprise Works Hub

Enterprise Works is the University of York’s hub for enterprise, bringing together regional business support, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It strengthens the University and York and North Yorkshire’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting start‑ups, small businesses, and leaders who drive positive change in their communities. Enterprise Works acts as a gateway for collaboration between the University and local enterprises, delivering programmes, events, and networks that encourage enterprise, creativity, inclusivity, and sustainable growth.

Economic Development Team

The Economic Development Team (EDT) sits within the newly created Reputation, Economic Development and Advocacy (REDA) Directorate and supports the development and implementation of strategic projects and investments with significant economic impact at the local, regional and national level. The MDT’s mission is to support and enable the University’s delivery of public good, by building inclusive partnerships and creating the infrastructure and support needed to maximise the economic impact of research and knowledge‑exchange activities.

Role: Relationship‑Building and Marketing Lead

This role focuses on building strong relationships with business networks and engaging small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Yorkshire region. The postholder will develop and deliver creative marketing campaigns, manage events, and promote Enterprise Works’ services through a range of channels. Key responsibilities include meeting with eligible businesses to understand their needs, generating leads, collaborating with University colleagues to strengthen SME engagement, maintaining accurate CRM records, analysing marketing data to inform future activity, and preparing reports to support strategic decision‑making. Overall, the role combines relationship‑building, marketing, and data insight to help Enterprise Works extend its reach and impact.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver creative marketing campaigns targeting SMEs.
• Plan, coordinate and run events that promote Enterprise Works services.
• Build and maintain relationships with business networks and key stakeholders.
• Manage CRM data and generate timely, accurate reports.
• Analyse marketing and engagement metrics to inform future strategies.
• Collaborate with University colleagues across research, support, and advocacy teams.

Qualifications and Experience

• Level 3 qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Solid understanding of business support networks and programmes.
• Excellent communication skills and confidence presenting to business audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Ability to analyse and interpret data to inform decisions and report outcomes effectively.
• Good digital literacy, including the use of online communication tools.
• Proactive approach to delivering high‑quality work and commitment to continuous improvement, inclusivity, and personal and professional development.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves. We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

Work Arrangement and Benefits

We offer family‑friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff.