So I'm giving a little bit of thought about moving from academia to the private sector. I'm in the fortunately position where my skills and experience are in demand and there are headhunters regularly in contact with all sorts of good positions and opportunities.

If I do move (which isn't guaranteed), I'd be relocating I think. With a private sector organisation would it be reasonable to ask for a relocation package? Moving house would be a reasonable expense and if I could get a package which helped with that it'd make the role very attractive - more so that an extra bit on the basic salary.

also also - is it sensible to talk the HH about this stuff, or get into a direct conversation with an employer and then discuss those kinds of terms if a job is offered?

bottom line/TLDR - I've only had 1 job (in an ivory tower) and been in it for 7 years so don't understand how the world really works!