Venture Center Director

Interested? Apply on our website: https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/365103

The University of Minnesota’s Venture Center, established in 2006, is an integral part of the Technology Commercialization office, focused on translating innovative research into viable startup companies. With 265+ startups launched and a consistent run rate of 20 to 25 new startups annually, the Venture Center plays a critical role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic development for Minnesota and beyond. It provides comprehensive support for UMN-affiliated startups, including access to funding, mentorship, and other resources, while actively engaging with the local and national innovation ecosystems.

The Venture Center Director will report to the Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation - in the University’s Technology Commercialization office. This role has ultimate leadership and management responsibility for the Venture Center business unit. The Director will set the strategic direction, oversee day-to-day operations, provide team supervision, along with having key individual contributor responsibilities. The position will also participate in the development of overarching strategies for Technology Commercialization and the Research and Innovation Office (RIO).

Responsibilities:

Business Unit Operations Leadership (35%)

The Venture Center Director is responsible for overseeing all daily operations of the Venture Center, which leads startup activities for new and existing ventures. Key responsibilities include:

• Leadership and accountability for all startup-related activities including the Discovery Capital and Discovery Launchpad programs, the Business Advisory Group, as well as two key new programs:  Discover, Advance, Impact and DiscoveryMN Angels Program.
• Managing investor relations programs that benefit UMN startups, ensuring effective deal flow for investment opportunities and fostering long term relationships with investors. 
• Forecasting, tracking, and reporting business unit activities and performance to Tech Comm, RIO, and UMN - including the Office of Investments and Banking (OIB).
• Leading the recruitment, onboarding, management and development of new team members, including the Investment Program Manager and Venture Development Associate.

Strategic Planning (25%)

The Director will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans that align with the overall goals of the Venture Center, including:

• Crafting comprehensive strategies for startup-related activities, ensuring alignment with Tech Comm objectives.
• Setting and measuring annual goals for the business unit, tracking performance and reporting progress.
• Identifying business initiatives and collaborative opportunities for the Venture Center's effectiveness and reach.

External Business Relationships (25%)

The Director will play a key role in establishing and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders, focusing on:

• Engaging with the local innovation ecosystem to build partnerships with leaders, investors, and organizations.
• Leading outreach initiatives to connect investors with UMN startups and representing the team at events.
• Facilitating communication and collaboration between the Venture Center and external organizations to translate research into viable startups.
• Partnering with Venture Center Directors at other universities to share successful programs and best practices.

Cross Functional Relationships (15%)

The Director will ensure productive collaboration between the Venture Center and other UMN departments, focusing on:

• Leading University-wide initiatives and collaborating with leaders to implement new programs and policies.
• Advising senior leadership on the operational and financial impacts of strategic decisions and policy changes.
• Participating in key committees and as an office representative at both internal and external forums.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree with at least 15 years of leadership experience in technology and/or product commercialization
• Startup experience, including fundraising.
• Investment (angel or VC) experience.
• Strong understanding of complex license and investment agreements.
• Strategic planning experience.
• Strong organization skills with attention to detail. Initiative and ability to work independently and in teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required. An ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience developing relationships with business development executives across a variety of industries.
• Excellent interpersonal skills - proclivity to be an outgoing spokesperson and relationship builder.

Preferred Qualifications:

• MBA or other related advanced degree

About the Department:

The Technology Commercialization (Tech Comm) office at the University of Minnesota helps University research move beyond the lab and into the marketplace.

Our mission includes: 

• Protection of University Intellectual Property 
• Connecting researchers with companies; 
• Licensing technology for development of new products and services that benefit public good; 
• Fostering economic growth; 
• Generating revenue that supports the University’s research and education goals.

Visit our website to learn more!