Head of Research & Innovation, Social Innovation Institute

Position Description Reporting to the Associate Vice-President, Research Innovation, the Head of Research Innovation, Social Innovation Institute leads the Institute’s operations, people, partnerships and research activities. The role develops opportunities for externally funded research, oversees Institute budgets and projects, and builds relationships with academic areas, funders and external partners.

As a member of the Office of Research Innovation’s senior leadership team, the Head supports institutional research priorities while ensuring the Institute’s activities meet funding, policy and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the Social Innovation Institute's operations and employees, including service delivery, workload planning, staff development and continuous improvement. Develop partnerships with industry, community, government and academic stakeholders to expand research opportunities and support student and employee involvement in Institute activities.

Oversee the development of research proposals, project plans, contracts and agreements, and identify funding opportunities aligned with the Institute's capabilities and institutional priorities. Develop and manage operating, grant and project budgets; monitor financial performance and provide reports to Polytechnic leadership and funders.

Identify and manage operational and project risks, and ensure Institute activities comply with applicable Polytechnic policies, funding requirements and research standards. Other duties as assigned. Educational and Experience Requirements A master's degree in a relevant field, or equivalent work experience, competencies and industry knowledge At least five (5) years of people management experience, including leading multidisciplinary social innovation teams, improving processes and providing performance feedback.

Experience in partnership development and relationship management, preferably in a postsecondary and/or research and innovation environment. Project Management certification or a PMP designation would be an asset. Skills and Attributes Advanced knowledge of social sciences research design and methodology, postsecondary research funding programs, and Canadian legal and regulatory research requirements.

Strong research proposal development, program management, negotiation and problem-solving skills. Ability to assess opportunities and risks across academic disciplines and interpret complex financial information. Broad leadership skills managing a diverse team of experienced individuals. Excellent communication, collaboration, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.

Demonstrated commitment to uphold the polytechnic’s priorities on equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenization (EDII).