Director, Innovation and Engagement

Role Overview

• Help translate world-class research into real-world impact
• Cultivate and grow relationships with corporate, government, and nonprofit partners
• Support the development of startups and commercialization pathways
• Position CALS as a leader in innovation across areas such as food systems, environmental sustainability, and life sciences
• Work closely with faculty and student innovators and cross-campus partners
• Identify opportunities, develop strategic initiatives, and manage programs that enhance the visibility, impact, and economic value of CALS research

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 to 7 years relevant work experience with a focus on strategy, operations, and program implementation or equivalent combination
• Experience in organizing and facilitating multi-stakeholder workshops with C-suite executives and senior organizational leaders
• Strong interpersonal skills with proven ability to work with diverse audiences in group and one-on-one settings
• Ability to work within matrix organization and persuade stakeholders without formal reporting lines
• Structured problem-solving approach to complex assignments
• Operational experience in customer-facing roles with marketing or promotion leadership experience
• Strong business and investment acumen
• Proven organizational and time-management skills
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint (can develop high-end presentations)
• Good understanding and skill of AI technology and applications
• Creativity, energy, motivation and positive enthusiasm
• Ability to drive and travel for work
• Experience working directly with people from various socioeconomic backgrounds
• Experience incorporating the perspectives of multiple communities
• Experience working with inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing programs
• Experience modeling values that support inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing
• Ability to advocate for individuals from a broad range of backgrounds
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members
• Position requires some evening and weekend work

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care options
• Generous retirement contributions
• Access to wellness programs
• Employee discounts with local and national retail brands
• Health and personal leave
• Three weeks of vacation
• 13 holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and the day after, and an end of the year winter break from December 25-January 1
• Two additional floating holidays
• Tuition-free Extramural Study and Employee Degree Program
• Tuition aid for external education
• Cornell Children's Tuition Assistance Program