Executive Director, Applied Innovation Institute & Partnerships

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

Job summary

Metropolitan State University seeks an Executive Director for the Metro State Applied Innovation Institute (MSAII) to drive strategy, operations, and growth across cybersecurity, AI, and workforce innovation. The role collaborates with the Chief Innovation and Research Officer, the Board, and external partners to deliver sustainable programs and partnerships.

The Executive Director will oversee business model development, contracts and sponsored research, and revenue-generating training,

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required.
• Four years of leadership in business development, sponsored project, nonprofit, or research administration.
• Experience with budget development and revenue modeling.
• Experience with contracts, grants, or fee-for-service programs.
• Experience working with universities, government agencies, nonprofits, industry partners, and public-sector organizations.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and set strategic goals for MSAII.
• Develop operating models including revenue-generating programs.
• Manage external partnerships and client relationships.
• Support contract research and sponsored projects activities.
• Oversee training, certification and revenue-generating programs.
• Manage financial model and sustainability of the Institute.
• Coordinate with board and university units on governance and growth.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Revenue modeling

Grant/contract management

Education

Master’s degree

Doctoral degree

Tools

Contract research

Sponsored projects

Job description

Metropolitan State University seeks an Executive Director for the Metro State Applied Innovation Institute (MSAII) to drive strategy, operations, and growth across cybersecurity, AI, and workforce innovation. The role collaborates with the Chief Innovation and Research Officer, the Board, and external partners to deliver sustainable programs and partnerships.

The Executive Director will oversee business model development, contracts and sponsored research, and revenue-generating training,