Commercial Development Manager

National Oceanography Centre; Liverpool; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 days annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible benefits portal

Cycle-to-Work scheme

Social events

Job summary

A leading ocean research institute is seeking a Commercial Development Manager in Liverpool or Southampton. The role leverages scientific expertise to develop commercial products, foster partnerships, and generate revenue. Candidates should have strong business development skills, communication abilities, and industry knowledge, with a passion for ocean research. This full-time position offers a hybrid working model and a generous benefits package.

Qualifications

• Proven business development capability, preferably in marine or maritime industries.
• Ability to interpret complex technical and scientific information into accessible language.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and networking skills.
• Self-starter who can manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and scale commercial services from concept to delivery.
• Collaborate with global stakeholders and create lasting partnerships.
• Influence science-driven decision-making.

Skills

Business development capability

Communication skills

Networking skills

Ability to translate technical information

Strong interpersonal skills

Job description

Overview

National Oceanography Centre (NOC) invites applications for the role of Commercial Development Manager. This permanent, full-time position (37 hours per week) is based in Southampton or Liverpool.

About the role

As Commercial Development Manager you’ll use your experience and creativity to harness NOC’s world-class scientific and engineering expertise to build and deliver new commercial products and services. You will play an instrumental role in generating sustainable revenue streams to underpin the future success of the UK’s premier ocean research institute. You’ll collaborate with diverse global stakeholders, creating lasting partnerships and influencing science-driven decision making for years to come.

Key focus areas may include projects aligned to our Marine Autonomous Systems (MAS) capabilities and/or our sensor development groups. The role may also involve overseeing existing collaborative research programmes and creating new ones in collaboration with NOC and partner teams. A combination of commercial and technical expertise is valued, with experience across marine industries being beneficial.

This role is being recruited alongside other commercial and applied science roles to bolster our capabilities and support our income diversification strategy.

About you

We are looking for someone who is passionate about the ocean and understands the value of engaging with industry to deliver a better future for our blue planet. This is a hands-on role requiring a dynamic individual who can:

• Develop and scale commercial services from concept to delivery
• Translate complex technical and scientific information into accessible language
• Work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple priorities
• Demonstrate proven business development capability and commercial acumen, preferably in marine or maritime industries

Strong communication skills, a proactive mindset, and a robust network of relevant contacts are essential.

Why NOC

We offer a generous benefits package, including:

• 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 closure days and bank holidays
• Employee Assistance Programme (free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues)
• Flexible benefits portal with online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
• Cycle-to-Work scheme and related accessories
• Social events and a Living Wage employer

Location
This position can be based in Southampton or Liverpool. The Southampton site is well connected by public transport with cycle parking and free onsite car parking; the Liverpool site is part of the University campus near the city centre and Lime Street station. We operate a hybrid working approach, with most positions offering a balance of home and office working.

Location and eligibility

London not applicable. Please note the role is based in Southampton or Liverpool with hybrid working options.

How to apply

Submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter by clicking ‘Apply for this job’. If you cannot apply online, contact the NOC recruitment team at [e-mail] or 07955 85164.

Closing date

Closing date: 14 September 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Qualifications and requirements

• Proven business development capability and commercial acumen, preferably in marine or maritime industries

• Ability to interpret complex technical and scientific information and translate it into accessible language

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and networking skills

• Self-starter who can work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple priorities

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Business Development
• Industries
• Research Services

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We evaluate candidates solely on qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.