Program Manager, Commercialization and Research - Entrepreneurship

Towson; Arkansas; On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A state university in Arkansas is seeking a full-time Program Manager for Commercialization and Research. This role involves designing programs that connect industry with university researchers, fostering technology commercialization, and supporting entrepreneurship education. The ideal candidate will have a relevant bachelor’s degree and experience in program management or higher education. Applications are encouraged early as the position may close when a suitable candidate is found.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in program management or related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Design and coordinate programs connecting industry with university researchers.
• Oversee initiatives strengthening the state’s innovation ecosystem.
• Manage commercialization programs.

Skills

Program management

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Program Manager, Commercialization and Research - Entrepreneurship

This position is Open until filled. Early applications are encouraged as the position may close before the listed deadline once a suitable candidate is found.

Summary of Job Duties:

The Program Manager, Commercialization and Research, reporting to the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, is responsible for designing, coordinating, and expanding programs that connect Arkansas industry with university researchers, foster commercialization of new technologies, and support entrepreneurship education. This role will oversee key initiatives that strengthen the state’s innovation ecosystem by facilitating collaboration, supporting academic programming, and managing commercialization programs.

This position is a full time onsite position, and requires regular on-site engagement across multiple OEI locations. Flexibility to support occasional evening or weekend events is necessary. Requires some overnight travel within the state.

Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential job duty, as is the ability to create and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships with others.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in business, engineering, science, education, or a related field
• At least two years of experience in program management, higher education research environment, industry engagement, or a related professional role
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders (faculty, students, industry partners, and administrators)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business, engineering, science, or a related discipline
• Experience in technology commercialization, innovation management, or entrepreneurship education
• Knowledge of research processes and university–industry collaboration models
• Demonstrated success in building partnerships across academia, industry, and the public sector

Additional Information:

This position is renewable annually based on continued need for the position, availability of funding, and satisfactory job performance.

Salary Information:

Commensurate with education and experience

Required Documents to Apply:

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application
• List of three Professional References (name, email, business title)
• Resume

Optional Documents:

• Proof of Veteran Status

Recruitment Contact Information:

Diane Walsh-McNutt
HR Director
Walton College
[e-mail]