Are you influential, proactive and analytical with a proven ability to generate new business and cultivate strong relationships? If so, Nesta is looking for a driven Programme Manager help lead the development of challenge prizes that encourage radical thinkers to develop new solutions to improve people’s lives.

Launched in 2012, the Prize Centre is at the forefront of identifying and defining problems where new ideas, technologies and approaches can be encouraged to radically improve outcomes and then developing and managing challenge prizes – competitions which reward whoever can first or meet a defined challenge – that optimise the likelihood of success. Past prizes include improving outcomes for Nepalese farmers, improving access to energy for refugees and the £10m Longitude Prize for antimicrobial resistance.

About the role
The successful candidate will be responsible for prize planning and implementation from launch and beyond, including the formation, development and line management of an effective team and close attention to budgeting. You will analyse and identify fields and emerging areas where challenge prizes could more rapidly advance innovation for societal benefit, plus manage the design of multiple challenge prizes by working with a broad range of partners and stakeholders.

You will develop key relationships with relevant government agencies and charitable foundations to raise funding for new and existing prizes, plus lead consultancy work for clients interested in challenge-driven innovation and develop compelling communications and marketing campaigns and strong impact evaluation strategies.

To secure this exciting opportunity
Passionate about social change, you will have impressive programme and client management experience, including scenario planning, managing budgets, staff and suppliers, plus possess a first-class track record of effective line management and generating new clients.

You will also have demonstrable experience of leading the design and delivery of programmes, with an appreciation for deadlines, cost and delivery focus. Educated to degree level, you will be an outstanding communicator, both verbal and written, with an enquiring mind and excellent relationship-building skills.