Vice Director of Innovation, Sponsored Research

**Position Overview**

ICFO is seeking a highly motivated and experienced leader for the role of **Vice-Director of Innovation, Sponsored Research, and Public Engagement**. As a member of the Executive Team, this position plays a pivotal role in shaping ICFO’s strategic direction in key areas: knowledge and technology transfer, competitive and private research funding, philanthropic partnerships, corporate and scientific communications, and public outreach.

The Vice-Director will lead strategic teams responsible for:

- **Competitive Funding**: Securing national and international research grants and fostering partnerships with funding agencies.
- **Philanthropy**: Developing relationships with donors and philanthropic organizations to support ICFO’s mission.
- **Communications**: Overseeing ICFO’s communication strategies to strengthen institutional visibility.
- **Outreach**: Engaging with schools, policymakers, and the public to promote science and technology while championing gender equality and diversity in STEM.

**Key Responsibilities**
- **Strategic Leadership**: Develop and implement strategies and policies for innovation, research funding, and public engagement that align with ICFO’s mission and long-term objectives.
- **Team Management**: Lead, mentor, and support teams responsible for KTT, Competitive Funding, Philanthropy, Communications, and Outreach, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- **Innovation and Knowledge Transfer**: Oversee initiatives to translate ICFO’s ground-breaking research into societal and industrial impact, managing intellectual property, licensing, and spin-off creation.
- **Sponsored Research and Funding**: Expand ICFO’s portfolio of competitive and private funding, strengthening relationships with research sponsors and philanthropic donors.
- **Public Engagement and Communication**: Ensure effective communication of ICFO’s scientific achievements to diverse audiences and oversee outreach programs that inspire the next generation of scientists.
- **Stakeholder Engagement**: Build and maintain relationships with industry, government, academic institutions, and funding agencies, positioning ICFO as a preferred partner for collaboration.

**Why Join Us?**

At ICFO, you will have the opportunity to lead innovation and engagement at a globally renowned research institution. This role offers a platform to make a meaningful impact by transforming groundbreaking photonics research into solutions that benefit society. ICFO provides an intellectually stimulating and inclusive environment, dedicated to fostering professional growth and advancing the frontiers of science and technology.

ICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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**REQUIREMENTS**

**Qualifications and Experience**
- **PhD** in a relevant field of Science or Engineering.
- **MBA** or equivalent is highly desirable.
- A minimum of **10 years of senior management experience** in research-driven organizations or innovation-focused environments.
- Demonstrable expertise in driving **technology transfer initiatives, including intellectual property management, licensing, and business development**.
- A proven track record of securing **competitive funding** from diverse sources, such as **national/international grants, private sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships**.
- Demonstrated experience serving on **corporate boards** and building strategic relationships with **investors**.
- Familiarity with the **European, national and regional ecosystems** for research and innovation.
- Experience in leading **communication and public outreach efforts**, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
- Proven ability to **manage and lead multidisciplinary teams**, with strong skills in strategic planning, resource allocation, and performance monitoring.

**Personal Characteristics & Skills**
- Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to inspire trust, credibility and collaboration.
- Strategic thinker with excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, both oral and written.
- Fluency in English; additional languages (especially Spanish and Catalan) are a plus.

To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your experience and vision for the role, and contact information for three professional references.

9th of December, 2024