Innovation Hub Manager (Technology Showcase)

On behalf of FCDO, we are looking for an Innovation Hub Manager, (Technology Showcase), (Inside IR35) for a 6 month contract based onsite in London.

Role Overview - Innovation Lab Manager

We are seeking an SC-cleared, highly disciplined Innovation Lab Manager who is fully accountable for the technology showcase environment. You will combine hands-on technical capability with a strong operational mindset, ensuring the lab is consistently maintained to an exceptional standard and is always ready for senior stakeholder and VIP engagement. The role requires uncompromising attention to detail in both the environment and personal conduct.

Scope of Services

You will be accountable for:

Lab Readiness & Operation
. Maintain a fully operational, high-standard innovation lab
. Ensure all technologies are configured, functional, and demonstrable
. Deliver a consistently "demo-ready" environment

Technology Showcase
. Implement and maintain emerging technology demonstrations
. Refresh and evolve the lab capability over time
. Support engagements, demonstrations, and innovation sessions

Environment Standards
. Maintain exceptional physical and technical standards
. Ensure a structured, organised, and controlled environment at all times

Autonomous Delivery & Executive Tasking
. Identify and resolve issues independently
. Implement improvements without reliance on senior escalation
. Take ownership of delivery against non-standard or ad-hoc requests from: Head of IT Service Management, Deputy Director for Live Services
. Demonstrate a strong "can do" attitude, with a focus on solutions and delivery rather than escalation
. Maintain full accountability for outcomes, including delivery under short timelines or evolving requirements

Key Deliverables
. Lab always "demo-ready" (defined measurable standard)
. Working showcase use cases for agreed technologies
. High-quality stakeholder experience (VIP-ready environment)
. Continuous improvement of lab capability and presentation

Candidate Profile

Essential
. SC Cleared and be prepared to undergo DV clearance once in role.
. Strong hands-on technical capability
. Operates independently with clear accountability for outcomes
. High attention to detail and standards-driven mindset
. Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and VIPs

Preferred Background
. Military/structured operational environments
. Engineering/technical operations
. High-discipline, controlled environments

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, FCDO guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

FCDO guarantees to interview veterans or spouses/partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates/military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".