About the job

Jisc is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join as Head of Portfolio - Commercial (Hybrid) on a 9-month fixed-term contract with a salary range of £65,000–£75,000 per annum depending on experience. Reporting to the Director of Product – GCTO with a dotted line to the Sales Director CSE, this hybrid role allows flexible working across Jisc’s hubs in London, Bristol, Manchester, and Oxford. Jisc, the UK’s digital, data, and technology agency for tertiary education, research, and innovation, is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving lives through technology. The Head of Portfolio will be instrumental in driving the strategic direction and commercial success of the GCTO portfolio, ensuring cost transparency, profitability, and the development of scalable commercial propositions. This role demands strong commercial acumen, leadership, and the ability to influence across senior levels, working closely with finance, procurement, sales, marketing, and product teams to align offerings with customer needs while increasing revenue and reducing reliance on grant funding. Responsibilities include strategic and commercial leadership, partner management with major technology providers, implementation of cost and pricing models, sales enablement, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of P&L ownership, extensive experience in commercial management, new product launches, product lifecycle management, and strategic marketing, particularly within connectivity, cloud, or cybersecurity sectors. Strong influencing, negotiation, and communication skills are essential, along with a collaborative leadership style and the ability to operate at a senior level. Jisc values flexibility, impact, continuous learning, and inclusivity, offering excellent benefits including 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, flexible pension schemes, mental health support, development opportunities, and wellbeing benefits. Even if applicants do not meet every listed requirement, they are encouraged to apply if they feel the role aligns with their capabilities.