Executive Director, Applied Innovation Institute

Metro State; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 210,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Metro State Applied Innovation Institute (MSAII) in St. Paul seeks an Executive Director to lead its growth as a public-private research and training enterprise.

You will shape strategy, oversee operations, and build partnerships with university units, government, industry, and nonprofits to advance cybersecurity, AI, and defense-adjacent initiatives. The role requires strong leadership, financial stewardship, and experience with sponsored research, contracts, and revenue-generating programs.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required; doctoral degree preferred.
• Four years of leadership in business development, sponsored projects, nonprofit, or research administration.
• Experience with budgets, revenue modeling, grants or contracts, or fee-for-service programs.
• Experience with universities, government agencies, nonprofits, industry partners, and public-sector organizations.
• Demonstrated cross-institutional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Institute's strategy and operating model.
• Oversee revenue-generating programs and contracts.
• Manage external partnerships and client relationships.
• Coordinate with university leadership and Minnesota State system offices.
• Ensure financial sustainability and governance.

Skills

Leadership in business development

Sponsored project management

Nonprofit administration

Contracts and grant administration

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's degree

Doctoral degree

Job description

Metro State Applied Innovation Institute (MSAII) in St. Paul seeks an Executive Director to lead its growth as a public-private research and training enterprise.

You will shape strategy, oversee operations, and build partnerships with university units, government, industry, and nonprofits to advance cybersecurity, AI, and defense-adjacent initiatives. The role requires strong leadership, financial stewardship, and experience with sponsored research, contracts, and revenue-generating programs.