Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.

The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.

Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.

About the role

Strategic partnerships are key to amplifying the impact of the work we do here at NOC, providing a lens to focus and prioritise future research, diversify funding, engage industry and ultimately deliver impactful and engaging science.

As Corporate Partnerships Manager you’ll lead on the creation and delivery of compelling partnership propositions, connecting NOC’s science and research capabilities with corporate strategies to address pressing environmental societal and industry challenges. You’ll collaborate with stakeholders from the financial services, insurance, data and big tech industries, amongst others, to see where NOC’s services can integrate with theirs.

For example, you could be working with our blue carbon and applied modelling teams to improve coastal resilience strategies alongside insurers and asset owners, or you could be working with our marine robotics and sediment core research teams to help accelerate the global energy transition alongside financiers and governments. Opportunity abounds and this role is at the centre of it.

This role is being recruited concurrently with several other commercial and applied science roles as we move swiftly to bolster our capabilities and deliver against our income diversification strategy. You’ll be working alongside an array of commercial BD and technical delivery talent at an exciting time in NOC’s journey.

About you

We’re looking for someone that’s passionate about the ocean, who understands the importance of engaging with industry to deliver a better future for our blue planet and those who share it.

You will be experienced with corporate business, understanding their drivers and ways of working. Coupled with this may be a background in data, technology or science, with experience implementing new ideas and solutions. Being able to manage collaborative projects is essential, as is the ability to originate, test, pilot and scale strategic partnerships, aligning common visions with joint KPIs and deliverables. You will have a track record of engaging constructively and credibly with multiple stakeholders including senior decision makers, scientists and other subject matter experts, using your skills to influence and drive engagement to inspire action.

You will be environmentally aware, scientifically curious and commercially astute, with a strong network of relevant contacts. Expert communication skills are essential, as will being a self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and manage multiple priorities.

Why NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits, including:

- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays

- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme

- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and anonymous support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues

- access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards

- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories

- a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations

- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Location

This position can be based in Southampton or Liverpool. Our Southampton site is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points. The Liverpool centre is part of the University campus and is only a short walk from the city centre and Lime Street station.

We have a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can split their time working from home and in the office. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.

We may be able to offer financial support for applicants who will need to relocate for this position.

Submitting an application

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648.

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.

Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.

There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability. NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Date advert posted: 18 August 2025.

Closing date: 14 September 2025. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.