Director of Innovation & Startup Programs

About UIS

The University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves more than 4,000 students in 44 graduate and 56 undergraduate programs. You are encouraged to visit the university web page at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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6/5/2026

$90,000

The Director of Innovate Springfield is responsible for providing the strategic leadership and management of the day-to-day operation of Innovate Springfield. Duties include the development, delivery and support of all business incubation programming, cultivating external and internal stakeholder partnerships, community relations, and member development. The Director is also responsible for development and implementation of operational policies and procedures, day-to-day oversight of all operations, and serving as Innovate Springfield ambassador on campus and in the community.

• Strategic Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, Partnerships, and Funding: Work with the Chancellor to develop strategic vision, mission, goals and objectives for Innovate Springfield aligned with UIS and IIN. Lead and staff advisory board. Work with UI System and campus leaders to attract system resources and deliver joint programming. Set strategic objectives, establish performance metrics, and monitor and report on organizational progress. Build and maintain strong relationships with both external stakeholders (e.g., industry, government and community leaders) and UIS faculty, staff and students.
  
  Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships, collaborations and funding opportunities to support programming and incubator operations. Develop and maintain financial and intellectual resources for members.
• Operations and Management: Oversee day-to-day operations of the business incubator, including budget, financial management, resource allocation, operational policies and procedures. Recruit, hire, supervise, support and evaluate staff while fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that nurtures high performing teams and ensures individuals from diverse populations feel welcome, valued, and empowered. Work with Chancellor to develop policies and procedures for day-to-day operations, including programming, member services, marketing, and communications.
  
  Implement and manage such policies and procedures.
• Business Incubation Programming: Design and implement business incubation programs, including workshops, events, and mentor programs that address the needs of a diverse population of entrepreneurs and the local community. Develop and lead the Sangamon CEO Program, tech X, and other related high school programs. Monitor, evaluate and report on the effectiveness and impact of programs, making data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.
  
  Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies to ensure active members remain at the forefront of innovation.
• Member Recruitment, Support and Retention: Effectuate programs and services that retain, recruit, and support members. Work with staff to ensure all members are sufficiently supported with iSPI and network resources. Create opportunities for university faculty, staff and students to participate in iSPI programs and services.
• Carry out Strategic Priorities: Based on priorities set by Chancellor, develop and carry out activities to advance the iCenter and the university’s strategic priorities. Work to connect iSPI business incubation program initiatives to those of other hubs in the IIN. Other duties as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Master’s Degree in business or related field
• At least five years of leadership in developing and executing startup business and/or innovation programs with budget and funding responsibilities
• At least five years of experience in operations and supervising employees in a related field
• Demonstrated experience in organizational leadership, preferably in innovation-focused or startup environment
• Proven ability to develop and maintain partnerships with various stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, investors,…