Director - Institute of Productivity and Innovation
Director - Institute of Productivity and Innovation
We’re shaping the future of learning and work across our region; strengthening productivity, accelerating innovation and building the skills the Ayrshire economy needs to thrive.
This role sits at the heart of that ambition. As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director will lead the College’s Institute of Productivity and Innovation, positioning Ayrshire College as a strategic partner to employers, investors and regional partners across Ayrshire and beyond.
Bringing together employer engagement, apprenticeships, innovation, income generation, marketing and communications, the role connects education and industry to create real impact - supporting businesses to build future skills pipelines aligned to demand.
We’re looking for a confident, forward‑thinking leader with the energy to operate at pace, influence at a senior level and deliver on our strategic ambition: Empowering People for a Changing World.
To make arrangements to discuss the role on an informal basis please contact Sara Rae, Vice Principal of Skills and Enterprise on sara.rae@ayrshire.ac.uk.
Completed applications should be returned to Lucy Shields, HR Advisor on lucy.shields@ayrshire.ac.uk. Should you require further information on the application process, please do not hesitate to contact Lucy.
Leading at Ayrshire College
As a leader at Ayrshire College, you’ll be part of a team that’s driven by purpose.
The Senior Leadership Team brings energy, clarity and ambition to everything we do, working together to create the best possible environment for our students, our staff, and the region.
You’ll be expected to collaborate across the College, and deliver meaningful change that reflects our ambition.
We’re proud to be an Investors in People Gold employer—recognised for our values-led culture and the positive impact our staff make every day. 84% of our team say they actively live our values in everything they do.
If you share that mindset and want to understand where we’re headed next, take a moment to explore our Strategic Ambition
About Ayrshire
Nestled on Scotland’s west coast, Ayrshire blends rich history with modern opportunity. From historic castles and coastal towns to a thriving food, tourism, and manufacturing sector, the region offers an unbeatable quality of life. With excellent transport links to Glasgow and beyond, Ayrshire is an ideal base for those seeking balance—whether it’s walks on the beach after work, advancing your career, or settling down in a vibrant and welcoming community. As the region continues to grow through major investments like the Ayrshire Growth Deal, now is an exciting time to be part of its future.
Our Values
How to apply for the role of Director - Institute of Productivity and Innovation
Job Type : Permanent (1 FTE)
Salary: £77,022 - £82,383 per annum
Closing date: 12 noon on Sunday 26 April 2026
Join our Senior Leadership Team
If you wish to submit an application for the vacancy, please download and complete the application form in the link below.
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Sunday 26 April 2026.
Completed applications should be returned to Lucy Shields, HR Advisor on lucy.shields@ayrshire.ac.uk.
Selection Process
-
Post advertised on Thursday 2 April 2026
-
Post closes at 12 noon on Sunday 26 April 2026
-
1st interviews will take place on Thursday 7 May 2026
Final interviews will take place on Tuesday 26 May 2026
Ayrshire College is an Equal Opportunities employer and in this respect it would be most helpful if you could complete and return with your application form the appropriate questionnaire. This questionnaire will be retained by Human Resources and will not be used in the selection process. Similarly, you are also asked to complete and return the Criminal Conviction Declaration. The information given on these forms will be treated in the strictest confidence. Both forms are incorporated within the College’s application form.
Please note that we do not accept CVs.
Completed applications should be returned to Lucy Shields, HR Advisor on lucy.shields@ayrshire.ac.uk. Should you require further information on the application process, please do not hesitate to contact Lucy.
View the latest Ayrshire College News
From student success to strategic partnerships, our News section offers a real glimpse into the work we do and the values that guide us.
