As the Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives, Enterprises, and Government Relations, the candidate will be at the forefront of advancing the institution's research and innovation initiatives.  

The successful candidate will be an innovative and visionary leader who can integrate and execute multi-dimensional ideas to address grand challenges and contribute significantly to the university's strategic goals.  The Vice Chancellor will be responsible for the development and fostering of strong governmental relations to support research, innovation, and entrepreneurship initiatives.

In consultation with the Chancellor and VCRI, the Vice Chancellor will develop specific state/federal funding priorities and education priorities consistent with S&T’s overall mission as well as plans for executing these priorities. This includes maintaining effective policy advocacy efforts with elected and appointed officials and agencies and communicating developments and opportunities in a clear and concise manner.

The position carries an academic appointment.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Strategic Research Leadership: Lead and implement strategic research priorities, ensuring that Missouri S&T stays at the forefront of cutting-edge research.
• Visionary Thinking: We are seeking a creative thinker who can envision and formulate transformative ideas that align with the institution's strategic objectives. The Vice Chancellor will play a key role in shaping the future of research and innovation at Missouri S&T.
• Governmental Relations: Foster and maintain strong relations with state and federal authorities to secure funding and support for our research, innovation, and entrepreneurship initiatives. Coordinate efforts to influence legislation that positively impacts our institution and engage with decision-makers to increase S&T's visibility and influence.
• Funding and Legislation: Develop specific state and federal funding priorities and education initiatives aligned with Missouri S&T's mission. Work closely with the Chancellor and VCRI to strategize and execute plans that secure funding for our research endeavors.
• Policy Advocacy: Engage proactively with elected and appointed officials and agencies, advocating for policies that advance our research goals. Effectively communicate developments and opportunities to decision-makers in a clear and concise manner.
• Collaboration: Collaborate closely with the Kummer Centers, the Kummer College of Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Development, the Kummer Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) Doctoral Fellows, and various stakeholders within the university, including faculty, researchers, administrators, and external partners to drive a unified and cohesive approach to research and innovation.
• Economic Development Activities: Communication and action with the regional and state level stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Educational Background: A doctoral degree in a relevant field and 10 years of experience with a strong track record of research and innovation. The candidate will be eligible for tenure in an academic department.
• Leadership Experience: Demonstrated success in leading and managing complex research initiatives and teams and a strong background in strategic planning and execution.
• Visionary Thinking: Proven ability to envision and communicate a compelling research vision that aligns with the institution's mission.
• Strategic Mindset: Adept at identifying emerging trends and opportunities in research and translating them into actionable strategies.
• Collaboration Skills: Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect.
• Creativity: A passion for creativity and the ability to think outside the box to address research challenges.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner.
• Export Control and Security: At least 10 years’ experience directing export controls and classified federal contracts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven success and experience administering grants and contracts at a major research university. Interdisciplinary research development experience is highly desired.
• A strong history of interaction with major federal R&D agencies such a DHS, NIH, NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD.
• Experience working in government relations role or equivalent at the federal level (Congressional office, committee staff, etc.).
• Experience facilitating faculty teams pursuing large interdisciplinary research programs.
• Ability to lead complicated initiatives and seek input and buy-in from various stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Eligible for a US security clearance.