Innovation Project Manager

RecruitAid Ltd; Leeds; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing clean energy start-up seeks a Special Projects Lead to collaborate with the CEO and senior leadership on high-impact initiatives. This strategic role involves managing projects, supporting teams, and driving innovation in a mission-driven environment. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in project delivery and grant management, and thrive in dynamic settings.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in project delivery, innovation, or strategy.
• Experience in applying for and managing grants.
• Comfortable with international project development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a portfolio of innovation and strategic initiatives.
• Support project managers and cross-functional teams.
• Drive the scoping, planning, and delivery of new projects.

Skills

Project delivery

Innovation

Strategic thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Organizational skills

Job description

Fast-growing clean energy start-up is looking for a Special Projects Lead to work directly with the CEO and senior leadership team—driving high-impact initiatives across strategy, innovation, and internal operations.

What You’ll Do

This is a strategic and high-ownership role, blending hands-on project leadership with company-wide coordination. You'll serve as a trusted right hand to the CEO and a point of escalation for project leaders across the business. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Leading and managing a portfolio of innovation, R&D, and strategic initiatives—some UK-based, some international.
• Supporting and advising project managers and cross-functional teams, helping them stay on track and solve problems quickly.
• Acting as a point of escalation for complex or sensitive project issues, resolving bottlenecks and aligning key stakeholders.
• Driving the scoping, planning, and delivery of new projects—especially those that require coordination across departments.
• Identifying and applying for grant funding (UK and international), and managing associated application and reporting processes.
• Supporting international project development, including engagement with external partners and stakeholders abroad.
• Planning and facilitating key leadership processes—quarterly offsites, monthly business reviews, and strategic planning.

We’re Looking For Someone Who:

• Has 3+ years of experience in project delivery, innovation, or strategy, ideally in fast-paced or impact-driven organisations.
• Brings a track record of applying for and managing grants, especially in energy, infrastructure, or R&D settings.
• Is confident working on international project development, and comfortable building partnerships across borders.
• Is a natural organiser, communicator, and problem-solver, able to support and guide project leaders when challenges arise.
• Thrives in environments where they can blend strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
• Is tech-savvy, detail-oriented, and has outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Is based in or able to regularly travel to Greater Leeds Area (2–3 days/week).

Bonus Experience

• Clean tech, energy infrastructure, mobility, or sustainability sector background.
• Experience with innovation programmes, accelerators, or venture-backed startups.
• Familiarity with public-private partnerships or international NGO collaboration.

Why This Role?

• Shape high-impact innovation in one of the UK’s most carbon-intensive sectors.
• Work with a mission-driven, fast-moving leadership team.
• Gain exposure across strategy, operations, and innovation—with clear leadership progression.
• Help build the critical infrastructure needed to power a net-zero future.

Ready to take the lead on projects that matter?

Apply now and help drive the clean energy transition from the inside out.