Director of Operations

Location: In-person, White City, London

Type: Full-Time

About the Company:

IoT Tribe accelerates the growth and adoption of disruptive technologies globally. We work with corporations, governments, startups and investors to build thriving innovation ecosystems. Our team is driven by a shared mission to shape the future through fast-track technology adoption, co-creation and collaboration.  

As part of this mission, we launched Janus, an accelerator and ecosystem for dual-use innovation, in partnership with the Ministry of Defence’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA, part of UKDI) and other key stakeholders. Janus supports the UK’s leadership within NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), advancing cutting-edge innovation in defence and security technologies. 

About the Role:

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to spearhead the design and delivery of high-impact innovation programmes, including IoT Tribe’s Accelerator and Tech Studio models. This London-based role requires deep knowledge of the tech and corporate landscape, strong negotiation skills, and a proven ability to secure high-value partnerships and funding. 

You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, identifying and converting business development opportunities, and leading the creation of compelling bid applications. The role also involves building strong stakeholder relationships across the UK and internationally, ensuring IoT Tribe’s continued growth and influence in the innovation ecosystem. 

Responsibilities: 

• Programme Design & Delivery: Lead the design and execution of innovation programmes, including accelerators and the Tech Studio model, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and stakeholder needs. Direct the effective delivery of the Janus Accelerator Programme, managing timelines, quality standards and operational excellence. Develop and enforce SOPs and compliance frameworks, including our Information Management Security System. 
• Strategic Partnerships & Negotiation: Identify, negotiate and secure high-value partnerships with corporate and public sector clients. Lead client presentations, proposal development and partnership agreements to drive commercial growth and impact.  
• Business Development & Bid Writing: Proactively identify new business opportunities and funding streams. Write high-calibre bid applications and proposals that reflect the quality and ambition of IoT Tribe’s programmes. 
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government, industry and academia. Represent Janus and IoT Tribe at industry events to enhance brand visibility and influence. 
• Platform & Resource Management: Spearhead the build-out and strategic use of the Tribe Platform across all programmes. Allocate team resources effectively using tools like Productive and HubSpot to ensure optimal delivery and efficiency. 
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Compile, analyse and report on key programme metrics to inform strategic decisions and enhance performance. 
• Financial Oversight: Maintain P&L accountability, ensuring resources are aligned to maximise value and impact. 
• Team Leadership: Recruit, motivate and manage high-performing teams to deliver exceptional results. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. 

Qualifications:

• Education: MBA, BSc or higher in a relevant field. 
• Experience: Minimum 10 years in senior management and business development roles within the tech sector. 
• Network: Well established contacts across the UK and European tech and corporate ecosystems. 
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal English skills, with proven experience engaging C-level stakeholders. 
• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrated success in P&L management, closing complex sales, and securing strategic contracts. 
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of technology adoption and corporate innovation; hands-on experience with low-code platforms and digital tools to enhance programme delivery. 
• Analytical Skills: Skilled in data analysis, process optimization and articulating effective solutions. 
• Team Leadership: Proven ability to recruit, develop and inspire cross-functional teams to deliver high performance. 
• Language Skills: Native English speaker; proficiency in a second language is an advantage. 
• Mindset: Intellectually curious, fast-paced, collaborative and resilient in dynamic environments. 

Required Skills:

• Attention to detail 
• Multitasking and prioritisation 
• Strategic execution 
• Communication and stakeholder engagement 
• Commercial acumen  
• Analytical thinking 
• Data-driven mindset 
• Team leadership and people development  

Terms & Application 

Given the sensitivity of some of our work, you will be required to undergo a BPSS check. You must also be a NATO national.

Salary: dependent on qualifications and experience.  

Based: In person, White City, London, with occasional travel. 

Contract duration: Fixed term for 1 year with a possible extension to 3 years. 

Deadline: 21/09/2025

If you think your profile fits and would like to apply, please send your CV to talent@iottribe.org with a cover letter detailing the following (max 1 page):

1. Relevant Experience: Share one or two examples where you: 

• Designed or led a complex innovation programme. 
• Negotiated a high-value partnership or strategic collaboration. 
• Successfully led or contributed to a winning bid application. 

2. Motivation: Explain why you are interested in joining IoT Tribe and what excites you about our mission, particularly in relation to Janus or the broader innovation ecosystem. 

3. Availability: Indicate your availability to start and any notice period, if applicable.