Industrial Biotechnology Domain Specialist

Job description

Job Title: Industrial Biotechnology Domain Specialist – Scaling Innovation Mission
Team: Scaling Innovation Mission Core Team
Location: Any Scottish Enterprise office with everyday flexible working options
Grade: 5
Salary: £61,421
Hours: 35 hours per week
Status: Full time, permanent – with flexible working options considered
Vacancy ref: R00726
Closing Date: 28 September 2026

Be part of building Scotland’s future

Scotland’s industrial biotechnology sector is growing quickly, combining strengths in bioprocessing, data and automation with our natural resources, research excellence and industrial capability. At Scottish Enterprise, our ambition is to help the sector scale – turning those strengths into globally competitive businesses, sustainable products and new approaches to manufacturing that reduce reliance on fossil-based materials.

We’re building our Scaling Innovation Mission team to bring together the companies, technologies, investors and partners needed to accelerate scale-up, attract investment and deliver lasting economic impact for Scotland.

The role

You’ll lead our industrial biotechnology strategy, developing a strategic delivery action plan in the Scaling Innovation Mission and translating industry insight into programmes that make a real difference.

Building coalitions across the sector, you’ll mobilise delivery and support measurable outcomes in innovation, scaling and investment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead the development and implementation of our industrial biotechnology strategy and strategic  action plan, setting out priorities, outcomes, measures, dependencies, risks and timelines
• Devise, shape and deliver major multi-partner programmes, including cluster activity, the Grangemouth innovation pipeline and support for high-potential companies
• Build relationships across industry, investors, regulators, academia and government, representing our organisation and using insight to accelerate scaling and adoption

Who we’re looking for

You’ll bring strong professional knowledge of industrial biotechnology, sound judgement and a practical focus on delivery. You’ll be comfortable working across organisational boundaries and building the relationships that turn strategy into activity.

Your skills and experience should include:

• Experience in innovation, industrial biotechnology, an industry-facing delivery role or economic development, with evidence of strategic impact
  Knowledge of Scotland’s industrial biotechnology landscape, including key institutions, policy and funding mechanisms
• Expertise in industrial biotechnology innovation, market dynamics, regulation and adoption barriers
• A track record of developing strategies and mobilising complex programmes or projects involving multiple stakeholders
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and work within delivery governance frameworks

Life at Scottish Enterprise

As one of Scotland’s Top 10 Flexible Employers, we pride ourselves on empowering our colleagues to work when and where they can best deliver their role in support of our corporate plan.

Learn more about working with us 

How to apply

If you’re interested in this role, complete your application form by 28 September 2026.

Interview dates

Interviews will be held in the week commencing 5 October 2026.

Our values

Being part of Scottish Enterprise means being open to new ideas and trying different ways of working. We support each other to reach our full potential. We celebrate shared success and learn together when things don’t go so well. And we always treat each other fairly, with respect and understanding. Together, we are the difference.

At Scottish Enterprise, we’re proud to celebrate difference. Diversity of experience and thought is vital to the success of our vision for the future of every community across Scotland. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively encourage applicants from a wide range of individuals, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, gender identity and expression, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We commit to providing any reasonable adjustments required, not only during the application and assessment process but throughout employment with us.

We have the following networks which are open to all colleagues to help drive inclusion, Disability Positive, Gender Balanced, Multi-cultural, Multi-Generational and Pride (LGBTQ+).

Apply now to build your future with us.