Executive Director, Invention to Innovation Research and Innovation Institute
Simon Fraser University
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See open jobs at Simon Fraser University.See open jobs similar to "Executive Director, Invention to Innovation Research and Innovation Institute" AnitaB.org.Who We Are
Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.
The i2I Research & Innovation Institute (i2IRII) is a national, multi-stakeholder initiative at SFU dedicated to transforming the entrepreneurial mindset, innovation skills, and commercialization capacity of STEM and Health researchers across Canada. Our team designs and delivers evidence-based programs, builds strategic partnerships, and mobilizes research to accelerate societal and economic impact. We work closely with federal and provincial governments, post-secondary institutions, industry partners, and community organizations to advance Canada’s innovation economy. Our team culture is collaborative, mission-driven, and highly adaptive while being focused on excellence, continuous improvement, and scaling national impact in alignment with SFU’s priorities.
About the Role
The Executive Director leads the strategic direction, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability of the i2I Research & Innovation Institute. This role develops and executes the Institute’s strategic plan; builds partnerships with government, industry, and academic partners; and secures funding to expand national programming. The Executive Director oversees operational systems, governance, financial planning, and performance management, while ensuring alignment with SFU’s VPRI priorities. Upcoming priorities include advancing national partnerships, expanding service agreements, enhancing funding pipelines, strengthening institute governance, and supporting the growth of programming for researchers and innovators across Canada. The role is central to shaping Canada’s innovation and commercialization landscape and ensuring i2IRII’s reputation as a national leader in research-to-innovation capacity building.
The ideal candidate is a strategic, visionary leader with deep expertise in innovation, business/entrepreneurship education, or STEM commercialization. They excel at building relationships across government, academia, and industry, and are skilled in securing funding, negotiating agreements, and shaping long-term strategic plans. They thrive in complex, multi-stakeholder environments, balancing operational oversight with high-level partnership development. Strong communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills are essential, along with the ability to anticipate risks, navigate emerging opportunities, and lead a culture of continuous improvement.
Qualifications
PhD in innovation, entrepreneurship, education, science-tech commercialization or STEM field and ten years of experience in academic leadership, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
- Demonstrated leadership in innovation, business/entrepreneurship, or STEM commercialization, with experience developing strategic plans and driving organizational growth.
- Proven ability to build and sustain high-level partnerships with government, industry, and academic stakeholders.
- Strong track record of securing funding and overseeing the development of proposals, service contracts, and agreements.
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and public-presentation skills, including media relations.
- Advanced problem-solving, strategic planning, and organizational management skills in complex environments.
What We Offer
At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer temporary employees who belong in the Administrative Professional Excluded Staff group (APEX):
- 8% vacation pay
- Employer paid extended health & dental plans
- Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
Additional Information
The assignment end date is August 1, 2028.
The pay range is the span between the minimum and maximum base salary for the position. The midpoint of the range is approximately halfway between the minimum and the maximum and represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications and experience for the position. In the normal course, employees will be hired, transferred or promoted between the minimum and midpoint of the pay range.
Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.
SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.
We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact pei_reception@sfu.ca.