View Vacancy - Head of Science and Innovation, British Consulate General Vancouver
Main purpose of job: The UK is a global leader on science and technology. Canada is one of the UK’s closest partners and collaborators, as we both try to push technological boundaries to fight climate change, drive economic growth and provide global public goods. The British Consulate General in Vancouver is looking for a dynamic individual to join the UK’s global Science & Innovation Network (SIN) as the Head of Science and Innovation in British Columbia. This is a stretching role that provides a bridge between the UK and Canada’s science and technology ecosystems. You will help ensure that the UK continues to be the partner of choice on science and innovation for Canada and catalyse research collaborations on areas critical to the UK’s future. These areas include responsible development of emerging technologies such as AI, quantum and bioengineering, as well as science and technology for climate action – but your focus will evolve in response to opportunities, Government policies and priorities, and the state of the art in science and technology. Similarly, you may be required to engage on policy issues relating to science and technology such as climate policy, biodiversity or global health. A taste for variety and the agility to switch between fields and quickly work out how to add value will be more useful than a specialism in any particular field. You will spot connections and opportunities; contribute to the UK Government policy-making process; conceive, lead and deliver projects and events; convene and build networks in both countries; organise and oversee high-level visits from UK VIPs; represent the Consulate General and the UK Government; all to strengthen UK-Canada relationships between Governments, regulators, research institutions, funders, accelerators, Indigenous partners and private-sector innovators. You will report directly to the Consul General in Vancouver and work with the small Vancouver Consulate General team, including collaborating with colleagues in the Department for Business and Trade and Media & Public Affairs team. You will also be part of the wider virtual SIN team across Canada, with colleagues based in Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. The core objective of this position is to represent the UK’s science and innovation interests across British Columbia. The objectives of the UK Government’s Science and Innovation Network are to:
You will work in a diverse international environment side-by-side with UK diplomats and country-based staff operating across the “UK in Canada” network. This network provides a platform for multiple UK Government departments and agencies to conduct their work here. As part of the small Vancouver Consulate team, you will also be expected to support the wider priorities, working culture and corporate management of the Consulate. The UK in Canada Network offers a unique career enhancing opportunity and is committed to supporting its staff through a variety of benefits including generous leave, benefits package and a strong learning and development offer. It also promotes a culture of flexibility, which enables people to better maintain wellness through an excellent work/life balance approach that encompasses hybrid working and flexible hours, where business needs allow. You will be expected to attend the Consulate in person at least 3 days per week, and the role involves occasionally attending events outside normal working hours as well as occasional travel. |
Roles and responsibilities:
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Resources managed: You will be encouraged and expected to develop project proposals with budgets in the CA$10,000s This role does not currently have line management responsibilities.
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Essential on arrival:
Must have the legal status to live and work in Canada.
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The following attributes would be an advantage, but could be learned on the job:
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The UK in Canada network offers a strong package of learning and development opportunities. We are committed to active, constructive line management. Additional opportunities will be available and encouraged, with flexibility for you to seek your own opportunities of interest, subject to approval by your line manager.
Appointable candidates who were unsuccessful may be placed on a ‘reserve list’. If during the reserve period of 6-12 months the same or a largely similar role becomes available, that role may be offered to the second or subsequent candidate.
The FCDO operates an agile workforce. To facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time as we may reasonably require.
The UK in Canada team encourages flexible working whilst expecting staff to work in the office 3 days per week to encourage teamwork, innovation and shared sense of purpose. On occasion, there will be a business need to be present in the office more frequently.
On occasion, you may be requested to support events that you or colleagues at the British Consulate General have organised and these may be beyond usual working hours such as evenings or weekends. In these circumstances you will be granted time off in lieu.
The British Consulate General actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including those who may not see themselves as holding all the requirements of the role on paper, but who can bring equally valuable experience and perspectives to bear. The British Consulate General is also committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s Call to Action 92, including equitable access to employment for Indigenous people.
The British Embassy Network offers a strong benefits package. This package includes generous vacation and leave time, flexible working patterns, and enriching learning and development opportunities.
Please note the salary is non-negotiable.
This opportunity is closed to applications.