Strategic Investment Board, Northern Ireland

In order to meet the demands of a changing society and economy, science and technology must sit at the heart of policy and decision-making apparatus in Northern Ireland. In this context, the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) is looking for a Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser (CSTA) for NI. This is an exciting opportunity to work across government, industry, and academia, developing a regional strategy to put science and technology at the heart of policy development and growing the economy and society of NI.

The role will be employed by Strategic Investment Board (SIB) but based in the Northern Ireland Executive Office, working at ‘arm’s length’ in an Office of Science, Technology & Innovation. The postholder will report directly to the Head of the NI Civil Service and will be the primary source of high-quality independent advice and guidance on strategic issues, opportunities and risks in science and technology for the NI Executive & NI Civil Service. The role will require close working with key stakeholders to drive change in how the NI Civil Service approaches science, technology, and data usage, to improve policy making and service delivery, participating in networks with other national scientific leaders on critical and emerging strategic issues in science and technology.

We are seeking candidates with demonstrable research leadership experience and expertise in a science and/or technology related discipline, with a proven track record in leading significant research or R&D programmes.  You will bring a demonstrable track record in leading the successful commercialisation of science & technology and be a strategically minded operator and communicator who can command respect and support across industry, government & academia. The role is being recruited on a part-time basis, requiring a commitment of an average of 2.5 days per week.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Strategic Investment Board, Northern Ireland on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference APCE. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by midday 5 December 2023.