Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives

Title : Executive Director for Strategic Research Initiatives

Agency : VP FOR RESEARCH

Location : Norfolk, VA

FLSA : Exempt

Hiring Range :

Full Time or Part Time :

Additional Detail

Job Description :

To lead strategic research development initiatives that enhance the university's competitiveness for external funding-particularly from federal agencies-by supporting complex proposal development, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, managing key research infrastructure, and aligning services with institutional research priorities.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Masters degree.
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal research funding agencies (e.g., DoD, NSF, NIH, DOE), including proposal development process, sponsor engagement, regulations, and compliance.
• Considerable knowledge of navigating complex academic environments, aligning services with institutional goals, and supporting high-impact research initiatives through effective coordination and partnership development.
• Demonstrated strong operational leadership skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to communicate precisely and effectively with multiple audiences.
• Demonstrated skill in analyzing complex situations and making decisions aligned with organizational strategy.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders, including faculty and external partners, and a proven ability to support interdisciplinary collaboration and team formation.
• Ability to provide training and support to students and faculty.
• Considerable experience in research and / or research development and proven leadership experience managing teams or cross-functional initiatives with increasing responsibility in a management / decision-making role.
• Considerable experience with proposal development with demonstrated success in grant writing; strong track record in grant writing team leadership, strategic research development, and building external partnerships with federal agencies, industry, or philanthropic sponsors are essential.

Additional Considerations :

Prefer a PhD in in a science or research background.