University Economic Development Association

Manager, Industrial Partnerships and Economic Development

Nov 12, 2012 | Commercialization, Consulting, Economic Development, Job Board, Tech Transfer

Title Manager, Industrial Partnerships and Economic Development
Organization / Institution Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
Department Industrial and Economic Development Partnerships
City, State N/A
Information PURPOSE: The purpose of the position is to help private sector companies identify and execute opportunities to translate Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) research into commercial applications, utilizing a variety of partnership mechanisms. Special emphasis will be placed on establishing an additional industry cluster strategy, focused on a specific ORNL technology portfolio, such as carbon fiber composites or advanced manufacturing.

MAJOR DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Works closely with ORNL research staff and private companies to better understand market trends and to forge collaborations that can benefit both ORNL, the participating companies, and the regional and national economy
  • Acts as the liaison and relationship manager between multiple private sector companies and ORNL in the pursuit of prospective collaboration opportunities.
  • Leads the development of an industry cluster strategy around a major ORNL technology portfolio to be determined.
  • Develops agendas for and hosts company visits to ORNL, seeking to identify promising commercialization opportunities for ORNL, and helps translate these opportunities into tangible results.
  • Serves as a point of contact for the Division with one or more research programs at ORNL, building key relationships with research staff which will serve as the foundation for successful private sector collaborations in the future.
  • Serves as a liaison for the Partnerships Directorate with several regional economic development organizations
  • Supports the planning and execution of SPARK and Bridging the Gap technology commercialization conferences, and the LDRD Launch program.
  • Maintains a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific, technical or business discipline is required with a minimum of five years of experience involving technology commercialization, economic or community development, or business development; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Strong organization, facilitation, planning and execution skills required. Must be self-motivated and capable of simultaneously managing multiple priorities. Excellent written and oral communication skills and good interpersonal skills required. The ability to work as a team member in a fast-paced, collaborative environment is key to success.

QUALIFICATIONS DESIRED: An advanced degree in business, planning, or a technical field that will enable the incumbent to help translate ORNL technology to potential business partners. Demonstrated familiarity and experience with ORNL and its commercialization activities, industrial partnerships, and economic development programs preferred.

WORK DIRECTION AND INTERFACES: This position reports to the Director, Industrial and Economic Development & Partnerships for all aspects of job performance as well as task assignments and priorities. The incumbent is responsible to customers for timely and accurate work.

MEASURES OF EFFECTIVENESS: Development of a new industry cluster effort around a major ORNL technology portfolio, and successful conversion of partnership opportunities identified by prospective industrial partners into commercialization opportunities and other formal business arrangements with ORNL.
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