Subject Matter Expert: Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) – Contract Role
Location: Hybrid (2-3 days on-site)
Contract: 6 months + possible extension
Employer: Aatom Recruitment (on behalf of a Local Authority)
Aatom Recruitment are currently seeking an experienced Subject Matter Expert in Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) to support a Local Authority in delivering a major regional economic initiative. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping innovation‑led growth across South East Wales.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director of Regional Growth & Investment, you will provide specialist leadership in the development and delivery of the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) Investment Zone – a once-in-a-generation programme designed to accelerate economic growth, drive innovation, and build inclusive prosperity.
The role sits at the heart of a complex, multi‑stakeholder ecosystem. You will work closely with:
- Industry leaders
- CCR Local Authorities
- Welsh Government
- UK Government
- Academic and research institutions
- Investment and commercial partners
Your expertise will help design and implement high‑impact programmes that support regional productivity, competitiveness, and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the RDI priorities of the CCR Investment Zone, backed by significant Government funding and focused on high‑value sectors including:
- Compound semiconductors
- Advanced manufacturing
- New and emerging technologies
Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic Leadership
Driving CCR’s innovation agenda and ensuring alignment with the Regional Economic and Industrial Plan.
Cluster Engagement & Market Intelligence
Building relationships with industry clusters and gathering insight to inform evidence‑based interventions.
Programme Design & Delivery
Designing and delivering innovation programmes that foster high‑value job creation and resilient supply chains.
Business Case Development
Producing robust, future‑focused business cases that maximise impact and secure investment.
Inward Investment & Partnership Development
Attracting investment and developing strategic partnerships across the public, private, and academic spheres.
Contract & Procurement Management
Overseeing commissioning, procurement, and contractor performance where required.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
Ensuring programmes deliver value, meet objectives, and demonstrate measurable outcomes.
Leadership & Team Management
Providing guidance and support to the wider Investment Zone Delivery Team.
About You
You will bring:
- Deep knowledge of innovation ecosystems and RDI policy
- Experience working with government, industry, and academic partners
- Strong strategic, analytical, and commercial skills
- Proven ability to design and deliver complex programmes
- Exceptional stakeholder engagement and diplomacy
- Understanding of high‑value technology sectors (desirable)
Other Information
- Ability to travel across the region is required.
- Occasional evening and weekend work may be necessary.
- This post is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
- Although you will have a contractual base, work will be carried out across multiple locations as required.
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