Springboard Atlantic was formed as a not-for-profit corporation in 2004. Its role is to create new opportunities to link together and grow the capacity of Atlantic Canada's academic institutions through the development of technology transfer and commercialization of new technologies, inventions and university based research expertise. Springboard comprises 14 universities from across the four Atlantic Provinces and is growing to include the welcomed involvement of the region's community colleges in all four provinces. Springboard is seeking an Executive Director who will guide the organization to meet its immediate and long-term objectives. Together with the Board of Directors the Executive Director will lead the organization for Springboard to 1) develop member technologies, 2) maximize resources, and 3) enhance economic development.
The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the operation of the network with responsibility to:
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Manage the overall day-to-day operations of the network including the central office, budgetary and financial issues, staff and additional new programs in future;
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Market and promote Springboard and member capabilities to the wider industrial and external audiences via dissemination of information, marketing reports, representation and networking events;
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Attract new funding sources to leverage existing funding for Springboard together with the member institutions;
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Manage the Proof-of-Concept, Patent & Legal and Technology Assessment Funds, to accelerate development and commercialization of technology opportunities arising from member research activities;
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Coordinate training programs to grow and develop the number of highly-qualified professionals at member Institutions and within the region;
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Develop and manage the business interns program initiative;
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Support Springboard governance and management through the activities of the Operating Board and Springboard networking;
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Monitor, assess, measure and report on performance so that Springboard achievements can be tracked and activities can be targeted or adjusted as needed to fit the scope, mandates and terms of the funding awards;
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Perform such other duties at the direction of the Board of Directors of Springboard.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in the area of commercialization and promotion of research successes. To complement this record you will have: a) a minimum of 5 years experience in a combination of university-industry liaison positions in the management of industry-sponsored research and technology transfer, or equivalent; b) a post-secondary graduate degree; c) experience and/or demonstrated knowledge in the development and implementation of industry liaison policies and procedures and funding programs in support of university based research commercialization; d) proven ability to negotiate and manage complex agreements with university, government and industry partners; e) excellent inter-personal skills; and f) excellent communications skills, including public speaking and writing skills. The ability to communicate in both English and French would be an asset.
The position of ED will be headquartered in Halifax with an expectation of considerable outreach and travel to participating universities across Atlantic Canada. The ED will report to the Springboard Board of Directors. This position is a full-time, three year contract with the potential for renewal.
Please forward a letter of application and resume and the names and coordinates of three references to: Springboard Atlantic Executive Director Search, 1721 Lower Water Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 1S5.
You may also submit your application via e-mail to info@springboardatlantic.ca – please use rich text format and combine your resume & cover letter in one attachment.
Please quote competition number ED0509-CB in your cover letter.
Applications are encouraged until the position is filled. Start date for the position is as soon as possible. Salary will be commensurate with experience.
We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
