Sustainable Aviation Development Manager

The Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS); Inverness; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in the Highlands and Islands region is seeking a Sustainable Aviation Development Manager to spearhead innovative transport initiatives focused on sustainability and low-emission travel. The role includes driving business development for the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment, securing funding, and engaging various stakeholders. With flexible working options and an opportunity to influence the future of aviation, this position offers a competitive salary and a collaborative team environment dedicated to making a positive impact.

Benefits

Flexible working conditions

Supportive team environment

Opportunity to lead transformative projects

Qualifications

• Proven success in business development and funding bids.
• Experience with project reporting and budgeting.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment initiative.
• Identify funding streams and develop high-quality bids.
• Engage stakeholders across industry, government, and communities.

Skills

Project Management

Business Development

Stakeholder Engagement

Communication

Organisational Skills

Education

Degree-level qualification or equivalent relevant experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

LOCATION: Highland & Islands (Highland, Orkney Islands, Moray, Western Isles, Argyll & Bute Council areas)

CONTRACT TYPE: Initial 24-month contract with expectation of extension

POSITION TYPE: Job Share and Flexible Hours Considered

Are you passionate about sustainable transport and aviation innovation? Do you want to help shape the future of low- and zero-emission air travel in one of the most exciting and unique regions of the UK?

Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS) is seeking a dynamic Sustainable Aviation Development Manager to play a pivotal role in delivering the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment (SATE) and other transport innovation programmes.

This is a rare opportunity to lead on projects that will influence how aviation evolves to meet net-zero goals, supporting communities across the Highlands and Islands and beyond.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading on business engagement and helping to deliver a range of innovative sustainable aviation programmes

Key Responsibilities:

· Drive business development and strategic growth of the SATE initiative.

· Identify and secure funding streams; develop high-quality bids and partnerships.

· Engage with key stakeholders across industry, government, academia, and communities.

· Support project reporting, budget management, and compliance with funding bodies (EU, UKRI, Transport Scotland).

· Represent HITRANS in national and international forums on sustainable aviation.

· Collaborate with a dynamic internal team and wide external network of councils, agencies, and industry experts.

We are looking for a candidate with excellent project management skills and a passion for sustainable aviation. You should be experienced in business development and and working with diverse stakeholders. Essential skills should include:

· Proven success in business development, stakeholder engagement, and funding bid preparation.

· Strong communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

· Experience with project reporting, budgeting, and Microsoft Office tools.

· Degree-level qualification or equivalent relevant experience.

The role can be based anywhere within the HITRANS remit area (Highland, Orkney Islands, Moray, Western Isles, Argyll & Bute), and we are open to flexible working arrangements, including job share and reduced hours. HITRANS has offices in Lairg, Inverness, and Jura, but we are happy to consider other suitable locations based on your needs and can find office accommodation in each of our partner Councils offices.

What We Offer:

· A competitive salary and flexible working conditions.

· An opportunity to lead a transformative programme that makes a real difference to communities and the environment.

· A supportive team environment and the chance to work on innovative projects across a stunning and diverse region.

How to Apply:

If you are enthusiastic about making a difference and have the skills to manage an exciting programme of work, we would love to hear from you. Please submit the application form associated with the role before the closing date.

Closing Date: Tuesday 8th July 2025

Interview Date: Thursday 17th July 2025

HITRANS is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all backgrounds and experiences.

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