Innovation Director

Job summary
The Department of Civil Engineering at UNB is creating a new research centre for resilient infrastructure (RCRI). The RCRI is a multi-disciplinary research centre that focuses on empowering infrastructure owners with evidence-based decision-making and improving our understanding of the connection between infrastructure and society. The Innovation Director will provide leadership in the growth and development of the RCRI, managing operational staff, budgets, and collaborative research.
Job seniority: mid-to-senior level
Responsibilities
• Lead the development and execution of the strategic plan in collaboration with the Centre's Board and Research Director. • Create a schedule and budget for implementing the strategic plan. • Manage and track all financials related to the Centre, including quarterly updates to the Board. • Pursue funding from research partners to ensure financial sustainability. • Supervise support staff and liaise with UNB service departments for collaborative efforts. • Prepare proposals, market to, and network with private and public partner organizations for client engagement. • Develop new research proposals and provide advice on technical and commercial opportunities. • Identify opportunities for fee-for-service, research and development, and training for industry partners. • Liaise with other UNB departments and faculties to utilize in-house expertise. • Network with global experts at other universities and research institutions. • Organize joint industry-research seminars, conferences, and events. • Lead the communications strategy to attract additional capacity and project investment in the Centre.
Requirements
• A university degree in engineering, business, or a related field. • Minimum of 5 years of experience in architecture, engineering, construction, or a related field. • Intimate knowledge of the Canadian infrastructure industry and its principal players. • Professional designation is expected. • Experience in the university research environment. • Experience in innovation, people management, communications, and project management. • Graduate degree in research, engineering, business, or a related field is considered a strong asset. • Ability to connect practice with research. • Ability to manage personnel and maintain HR best practices. • Strong communication and public speaking skills.
Key Skills Needed
• Leadership • Strategic planning • Budget management • Financial tracking • Fundraising • Client engagement • Research proposal development • Technical and commercial advising • Relationship building • Event organization • Communication strategy