Executive Director, Innovation & Economic Growth

University of Illinois Springfield; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Illinois Springfield seeks an Executive Director of Innovation and Opportunity to lead Innovate Springfield's strategy, partnerships, and economic development efforts across five pillars. You will work with UIS leaders, faculty, students, and regional partners to advance entrepreneurial and applied innovation, technology adoption, and workforce development.

Reporting to UIS leadership, you will oversee strategy, budget, and advisory boards, drive measurable outcomes, and ensure

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required (or extensive relevant experience)
• Strong track record leading innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems
• Supervisory experience
• Experience with business incubation, economic development, and partnerships

Responsibilities

• Lead Innovate Springfield strategies aligned with UIS priorities and framework
• Staff and lead advisory boards, translating regional input into UIS programs and measurable outcomes
• Develop financial sustainability for operations, programs, and partnerships with CAPE
• Oversee Innovate Springfield pillars: incubation, modernization, CAPE education, workforce development, and AI awareness
• Foster regional partnerships with business, government, academia, and community organizations
• Provide leadership, direction, and performance feedback to staff; monitor dashboards for impact

Skills

Innovation ecosystems

Entrepreneurship programs

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master’s degree

Job description

The University of Illinois Springfield seeks an Executive Director of Innovation and Opportunity to lead Innovate Springfield's strategy, partnerships, and economic development efforts across five pillars. You will work with UIS leaders, faculty, students, and regional partners to advance entrepreneurial and applied innovation, technology adoption, and workforce development.

Reporting to UIS leadership, you will oversee strategy, budget, and advisory boards, drive measurable outcomes, and ensure