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

As Commercial Development Manager you’ll use your experience and creativity to harness NOC’s world-class scientific and engineering expertise to build and deliver new commercial products and services.

You will play an instrumental role in generating sustainable revenue streams to further underpin the future success of the UK’s premier ocean research institute, gaining a deeper knowledge of the ocean to help every living thing on our planet flourish.

You’ll collaborate with diverse global stakeholders, creating lasting partnerships and leaving a legacy of science-driven decision making for years to come.

There are some key areas that this role is looking to fill, and the specifics of this are dependent on you. Particular areas of interest would be working on projects aligned to our Marine Autonomous Systems (MAS) capabilities and/or with our sensor development groups.

We also currently have a number of science focused ocean industry alliances and this role will ideally take ownership one or more of these. This will involve overseeing existing collaborative research programmes and creating new ones in collaboration with NOC and partner teams.

This is a varied role that will be suited to individuals with a mixture of commercial and technical expertise. Experience working with various marine industries will be of significant benefit, although there is an element of being able to tailor this role for the right individual.

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 people that are passionate about the ocean, who understand the importance of engaging with industry to deliver a better future for our blue planet and those who share it.

This is a hands-on role that requires a dynamic individual who is able to work not only with established commercial services but is also able to spot market gaps and build new services from the ground up.

We’re looking for someone with a proven business development capability and commercial acumen that’s preferably worked within marine or maritime-related industries. They will be skilled at interpreting complex technical and scientific information and translating it into language that is understandable and relatable to others. They will be 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.