Director, STAR Park Operations

Director, STAR Park Operations

Responsible for developing a creative environment that fosters business incubation, business recruitment, and research park development in close partnership with the research programs of Texas State University and its respective colleges, research centers, and academic departments.

Manage day-to-day operations of the Science, Technology, and Advanced Research (STAR) Park and the initial research facility at the Park, Star One. Facilitate SBIR/STTR grants and other external funding opportunities to support innovation-driven partnerships between STAROne client companies and Texas State researchers. Leverage Texas State's research expertise to address industry challenges, develop high-impact collaborations, and advance research, commercialization, and technology transfer initiatives.

Foster a culture of innovation, research, and entrepreneurship within the incubator and the broader local ecosystem by collaborating with the Office of Innovation, Commercialization and Engagement and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Manage STAR Park budgets, facilities, and personnel to ensure efficient use of resources, support STAR Park operations, and promote long-term sustainability. Coordinate with the Research Foundation, including administrative systems, workflows, compliance activities, and organizational processes, to ensure effective and efficient performance.

Assist in the development of long-range goals and objectives; develop operating policy and procedures, and client eligibility criteria with the Vice President for Research and the office of Innovation & Commercialization. Conduct incubator client applications and review processes and recommend approval of incubator client companies. Recruit and onboard STAR One client companies into the incubator and provide support, including workspace access, funding opportunities, and strategic networking connections.

Facilitate engagement between companies and key stakeholders—including investors, corporations, and government agencies—to accelerate business growth and strengthen business development. Represent the STAR Incubator Program and client companies to the community, university researchers, faculty and students, and prospective client companies. Oversee all tenant users of the facility to ensure compliance with all incubator rules, procedures, and regulations.