Executive Director Critical Minerals Strategy And Advancement
The Colorado School of Mines has over 150 years of experience in all aspects of the critical minerals life cycle. We believe that securing sustainable and reliable supplies of these resources is essential for the future of technology, energy, and national security. The Executive Director Critical Minerals Strategy and Advancement leads the University's work in this vital field. This position will be crucial in forging partnerships and positioning Mines to help policy makers, industry, and society close the many gaps in our critical minerals supply chain. The incumbent will increase Mines' national visibility and attract resources to develop Mines' faculty and programs.
Mines is seeking a visionary and hands-on leader to serve as an Executive Director Critical Minerals Strategy and Advancement. They will be responsible for developing a university-level strategic plan and associated business plan that positions Mines as a sought-after solutions provider. This role requires an understanding of global drivers of critical minerals markets, a solutions mindset, and the ability to prioritize and focus university resources for the greatest impact on the world.
Key responsibilities include :
- Project University's Vision : Engage key faculty and partners to create a cohesive strategy and vision for Critical Minerals at Mines and an affiliated business plan for implementing that vision. Market this vision internally to campus and externally to national and global partners.
- Facilitate Global Partnerships : Create intuitive and actionable pathways for collaboration, connecting Mines researchers with global industry, governmental agencies, and think tanks to strategically support the development of research infrastructure and faculty expertise. Help faculty and students see where to go next and build avenues to get there.
- Connect Campus-Wide Research : Serve as a primary driver of critical minerals research messaging, outreach, and new funding for Mines faculty and students.
- Fundraising and Donor Relations : Help identify and cultivate relationships with supporters, including individuals, foundations, and organizations, who are passionate about the future of critical minerals. Work in partnership with the Mines Foundation to support fundraising for critical minerals initiatives that further develop Mines expertise and research infrastructure.
- Critical Minerals Expertise : Develop insights and recommendations to position Mines in the global conversation, based on analysis of strengths, industry experience, identified national needs, and vision for the future.
Minimum qualifications include :
A bachelor's degree in a STEM field such as geology, materials science, or engineering.At least 10 years experience in the critical minerals sector, either in industry, government, or a related field.Able to build trusted partnerships with internal and external resources, connecting and activating Mines' experts in the national and global conversation.Exceptional collaboration skills and a proven track record of working effectively with teams without direct authority over them.A student- and faculty-first mindset, with a deep commitment to mentorship, access, and involvement.Established partnerships in the national and global critical minerals arena.A Ph.D. is not required for this position, but an understanding of global drivers of critical minerals markets is essential.Preferred qualifications include :
Experience working in higher education or managing large-scale research programs.A personal track record of launching or scaling initiatives in the critical minerals space.Total rewards for this role are $190,000 - $216,700 (annual rate). Colorado School of Mines offers a robust portfolio of benefits for all employees including flexible health and dental care options, generous sick / vacation time, fully vested retirement plan, tuition benefits, and free RTD Ecopass for regional bus and light rail train transportation.