Visiting Director of Innovate Springfield

Summary: The Director of Innovate Springfield is responsible for providing the strategic leadership and management of the day-to-day operation of Innovate Springfield. Duties include the development, delivery and support of all business incubation programing, cultivating external and internal stakeholder partnerships, community relations, and member development. The Director is also responsible for development and implementation of operational policies and procedures, day-to-day oversight of all operations, and serving as Innovate Springfield ambassador on campus and in the community. Duties Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, Partnerships and Funding: Work with the Chancellor to develop strategic vision, mission, goals and objectives for Innovate Springfield that are aligned with University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), the Illinois Innovation Network (IIN). Lead and staff advisory board. Work with UI System and campus leaders to attract system resources and deliver joint programing. Set strategic objectives, establish performance metrics, and monitor and report on organizational progress. Build and maintain strong relationships with both external stakeholders (e.g., industry, government and community leaders) and UIS faculty, staff and students. Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships, collaborations and funding opportunities to support programing and incubator operations. Develop and maintain financial and intellectual resources for members. Operations and Management: Oversee day-to-day operations of business incubator, including budget; financial management, resource allocation, operational policies and procedures. Recruit, hire, supervise, support and evaluate staff while fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that nurtures high performing teams and ensures individuals from diverse populations feel welcome, valued, and empowered to drive innovation and social impact. Work with Chancellor to develop policies and procedures for day-to-day operations, including programing, member services, marketing, and communications. Implement and manage such policies and procedures. Business Incubation Programming: Design and implement business incubation programs, including workshops, events, and mentor programs that address the needs of a diverse population of entrepreneurs and the local community. Develop and lead the Sangamon CEO Program, tech X, and other related high school programs. Monitor, evaluate and report on the effectiveness and impact of programs, making data-driven decisions for continuous improvement. Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies to ensure active members remain at the forefront of innovation. Member Recruitment, Support and Retention: Effectuate programs and services that retain recruit, and support members. Work with staff to ensure all members are sufficiently supported with iSPI and network resources. Create opportunities for university faculty, staff and students to participate in iSPI programs and services. Carry out Strategic Priorities: Based on priorities set by Chancellor, develop and carry out activities to advance the iCenter and university’s strategic priorities. Work to connect iSPI business incubation program initiatives to those of other hubs in the IIN. Other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned.