Growth and Innovation Associate (KTP Associate)

Contract: Full-time (35 hours per week), Fixed Term for 25 months

Role Description

This is an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative partnership between Heriot-Watt University and Falkirk FC under the UK Government-sponsored Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme.

This full-time, 25-month fixed-term role offers comprehensive development opportunities, including business training through the national KTP programme, training on Falkirk FC systems and processes, and an annual training budget for tailored personal development.

You will be primarily based at the Falkirk Stadium, home to Falkirk FC. The club was founded in 1876 and currently competes in Scotland’s top flight (the Scottish Premiership), having achieved back-to-back league championships and promotions in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. The project will also involve working with colleagues based at Heriot-Watt University’s Riccarton campus in Edinburgh.

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Education, Qualifications and Experience

Essential

1. A minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Sport Business or Sport Management) or a related discipline (e.g. Business, Management, Data Management, Analytics, Marketing), coupled with knowledge of football clubs as businesses and social institutions.
2. Strong research and written communication skills, with experience of using data to produce reports, articles, or presentations.
3. Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
4. Excellent verbal communication skills, with experience of workshops, stakeholder engagement, or delivering oral presentations; an active listener and confident questioner.
5. Data literacy and an understanding of how data can be used to inform strategic decision-making.
6. A proactive, self-motivated individual capable of working both independently and collaboratively.
7. Effective teamwork and interpersonal skills, including an understanding of roles, coordination, empathy, and organisational citizenship.
8. Adaptable, empathetic, and resilient, with a genuine commitment to the success of the project and the ability to manage change in a dynamic environment.
9. Ability to manage and prioritise a demanding workload, with strong time-management skills.

For all criteria, further details and how to apply please click on the 'Apply' button above.