Vice President, Innovate

Job description

Vice President

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Vice President will play a leadership role in key aspects of Innovate Calgary’s business, including business development, intellectual property, industry partnerships, technology licensing, and startup creation. Key services that Innovate Calgary offers include IP and knowledge transfer, new venture creation and support, accelerator/incubator design and management, and investment fund management. The Vice President will champion the innovation agenda at the University of Calgary, lead new opportunities, and act as a leader in a wide variety of corporate matters.

• Strategic Planning & Leadership
• Assist in formulating strategic objectives and long‑term plans and take an active role in aligning strategy across the company.
• Oversee innovation initiatives across departments.
• Monitor and report on progress towards Board‑approved objectives and plans.
• Support governance and policy development.
• Develop and mentor senior leadership and contribute to an engaging and supportive company culture.
• Intellectual Property, Commercialization, Innovation Advancement
• Lead and support the Technology Transfer Office in development of IP programs for UCalgary researchers and Alberta small‑and‑medium‑size enterprises.
• Act as the subject matter expert in guiding organizational strategy regarding intellectual property, research commercialization and technology transfer.
• Provide due diligence support on IP matters.
• Be a leader in advancing innovations through research partnerships, licensing, and startups.
• Support the development of commercialization plans and negotiation of contractual agreements.
• Stakeholder & Relationship Management
• Build new and maintain and enhance existing relationships with UCalgary leadership, researchers, students and partners, and external stakeholders, including government and other funders.
• Promote the organization’s reputation and contribute to the achievement of the UCalgary goals and strategies.
• Financial Management & Risk Oversight
• Work closely with the CFO to develop and support financial and auditing programs.
• Work closely with General Counsel to maintain risk management and legal strategies for commercial transactions.

The successful candidate will be a proven leader in research‑found innovation

• Strong strategic thinking and negotiation skills.
• Expertise in intellectual property laws and business practices.
• Skilled in business development and deal sourcing.
• Advanced understanding of scientific and legal principles.

• Leadership and team management.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building abilities.
• Ability to navigate complex corporate, financial, and legal matters.
• Problem‑solving and risk management skills.

• At least 10 years of senior management experience with a research and commercialization background.
• At least a masters level degree from an accredited post‑secondary institution.
• Proven business development experience and success in commercialization.
• Experience in intellectual property management, licensing, and legal negotiations.
• Government relations and grant funding experience is an asset.