Director of Technology - Quantum
Digital Catapult is a UK deep-tech innovation organisation accelerating the practical application of advanced digital technologies.
Projects
About Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult is an independent, not-for-profit member of the Innovate UK Catapult Network. It bridges industry, government, investors and academia to help deep-tech businesses scale, improve industrial supply-chain resilience and advance data-driven open future networks through collaborative R&D, specialist facilities, innovation programmes, ecosystem support and membership services.
Skills
Candidate Availability
Required and preferred rules are kept separate and reflect the wording in the original posting.
About the Role
Lead the quantum and photonics portfolio, define technology roadmaps, and deliver collaborative research, development, and technology translation programmes. Build partnerships, secure funding, represent the organisation at industry engagements, oversee programme delivery, and lead and mentor technical teams.
Requirements
- Demonstrated leadership and thought leadership in Quantum and photonics.
- Track record of building strategic partnerships across academia, industry, and government.
- Experience defining and delivering technology strategy, horizon scanning, roadmaps, and research agendas.
- Understanding of Quantum computing, Quantum sensing, Quantum networking, and Photonics.
- Experience securing collaborative research and innovation funding, including grant-funded programmes.
- Commercial awareness and experience identifying technology translation and commercialisation opportunities.
- Experience leading technology research, development, and innovation programmes in quantum and photonics.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams in research, innovation, technology, or R&D environments.
- Experience building teams and Quantum and photonics capability.
- Ability to complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard clearance before employment.
Responsibilities
- Lead the Quantum and photonics portfolio.
- Define and drive technology roadmaps for Quantum, photonics, and related areas.
- Direct research and development programmes and secure funding through R&D projects.
- Develop commercial opportunities and technology translation initiatives.
- Build relationships with innovators, startups, scaleups, government, academia, and industry partners.
- Represent Digital Catapult at industry events, conferences, and public engagements.
- Oversee the execution and evaluation of programmes, projects, and technology exploitation activities.
- Lead, mentor, coach, and guide Quantum and photonics team members.
- Conduct horizon scanning and develop technology plans.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays, and 3 days between Christmas and New Year.
- Double-matched pension up to 10% of salary.
- Discretionary company bonus.
- 4% of salary for selected benefits, including a health cash plan, private medical insurance, additional holiday, or pension contributions.
- E-Vehicle Scheme.
- Cycle2Work scheme.
- Tech Scheme.
- Gym discounts.
- Give As You Earn.
- PerkPal.
- Life insurance at 4 times salary.
- Free Employee Assistance Programme and financial wellbeing advice.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
- Hybrid working with office attendance two days per week for some roles.
- Company social events and free office snacks.
Hiring Process
All applicants must successfully complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance process before starting employment.
