Cluster Manager - Logistics & Distribution (12-Month FTC)

Connected Places Catapult; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a dynamic Cluster Manager to lead the Logistics & Distribution Cluster in Birmingham. This exciting role offers the chance to influence regional growth through strategic partnerships and drive innovation in the logistics sector. With a focus on collaboration and economic development, you will design methodologies for cluster growth and promote investment opportunities. Join a forward-thinking organization that values inclusivity and sustainability, and enjoy a flexible working schedule along with a range of attractive benefits.

Benefits

9-day fortnight with company shutdown

23.5 days holiday

Competitive pension with up to 10% employer contribution

Two paid volunteering days

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work Scheme

Cash Health Plan

Payroll Giving scheme

Retail discounts

Mortgage Advice

Qualifications

• Experience in economic development and cluster development.
• Understanding of logistics and distribution sector trends.

Responsibilities

• Deliver the Logistics & Distribution Cluster aligned with WMCA strategies.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders.

Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Strategic Thinking

Communication Skills

Economic Development

Business Engagement

Job description

Location:

Birmingham (Hybrid with some national travel)

Working hours:

Full time (9-day Fortnight companywide)

Band:

2.1

Salary:

£38,000 - £47,000

Contract Type:

Fixed-Term Contract (12 months)

Reports to:

Head of Regional Delivery

Closing date:

19/05/25

About The Role

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for regional growth, economic development, and industry collaboration? We're looking for a dynamic Cluster Manager to lead the Logistics & Distribution Cluster as part of CPC's role as Cluster Lead for the West Midlands Combined Authority's Plan for Growth.

This 12-month fixed-term role offers the opportunity to influence a high-growth region, build strong partnerships across public and private sectors, and drive innovation, investment, and inclusive growth. The Cluster Manager will deliver the Logistics and Distribution Cluster and develop a strategic framework for clusters nationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver the Logistics & Distribution Cluster aligned with WMCA strategies
• Build and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders including local authorities, businesses, industry bodies, academic institutions, and government agencies
• Design and communicate the value proposition and scalable methodology for clusters nationally
• Collaborate with WMCA teams to align with economic development priorities like skills, infrastructure, innovation, and decarbonisation
• Identify opportunities for cluster growth through initiatives, pilot programs, and funding bids
• Lead or contribute to designing interventions, action plans, and delivery models
• Promote the cluster regionally and nationally to attract investment, talent, and innovation
• Track progress, produce reports, and manage governance to ensure transparency and impact

Requirements

• Experience in economic development, cluster development, business engagement, or related fields
• Understanding of the logistics and distribution sector, including trends and challenges
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and relationship skills
• Strategic thinker capable of translating vision into action
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Experience with public sector or regional bodies is advantageous

Key Competencies

• Innovative methodologies and approaches
• Solution-oriented beyond traditional methods
• Effective cross-team collaboration
• Influence in projects and tasks
• Customer perspective integration
• Multi-channel communication skills
• Ability to plan and deliver multiple activities
• Adaptability to change
• Embedding inclusivity and sustainability in planning and delivery

Benefits

• 9-day fortnight with company shutdown every other Friday
• 23.5 days holiday, with pro-rata for part-time, plus Christmas shutdown
• Competitive pension with up to 10% employer contribution
• Two paid volunteering days per year
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for confidential support
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Cash Health Plan for healthcare expenses
• Payroll Giving scheme for charitable donations
• Retail discounts and offers
• Mortgage Advice from Charles Cameron & Associates

Employment is based on merit and qualifications. We prohibit discrimination and harassment and provide accommodations for disabled individuals as required by law.