Job Posting:
JR102071 Director of Economic Development Strategic Partnerships (Open)
Department:
BSU Research and Innovation, PM
Position Type:
Regular
Open Date:
08-31-2026
Close Date:

$120,000 - $130,000

Job Description:
The Director of Economic Development Strategic Partnerships reports to the Vice President for Research and Innovation and leads the development of strategic partnerships and economic development initiatives that advance Bowie State University's institutional priorities, research enterprise, workforce development goals, innovation ecosystem, and regional impact.
The Director works across the University and with corporations, educational institutions, government agencies, economic development organizations, community-based organizations, and other external partners to create sustainable collaborations, attract investment and resources, expand workforce and experiential learning opportunities, and advance innovation and commercialization.
The position provides strategic leadership for partnership development, economic development strategy, stakeholder engagement, grant and resource development, and performance reporting while ensuring that collaborative initiatives are appropriately reviewed, documented, and aligned with the University's mission, vision, core values, and long-term viability.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Partnership Development

• Work closely with the Vice President for Research and Innovation, along with key internal stakeholders in Academic Affairs, Institutional Advancement, Administration and Finance, and Legal and Government Affairs, to develop innovative partnerships with corporations, educational institutions, local and state government agencies, and community-based organizations that support the University's strategic priorities.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for collaboration that align with institutional strategic priorities and economic development goals.
• Serve as the primary divisional liaison for external partners seeking engagement in research, workforce development, innovation, and community initiatives.
• Negotiate and coordinate partnership agreements, memoranda of understanding, and collaborative initiatives.
• Work with the Vice President for Research and Innovation to create a model and infrastructure that advance short- and long-term strategies supporting the University's long-term viability.
• Work with University Relations and Marketing to develop key messages in support of economic development goals.

Economic Development Strategy

• Lead the development and execution of economic development initiatives that support regional competitiveness, innovation ecosystems, and business growth.
• Work with the Vice President for Research and Innovation to establish and chair the Economic Development Advisory Council.
• Identify emerging industry sectors and market opportunities for investment and collaboration.
• Facilitate initiatives that attract corporate investment, innovation hubs, business incubators, and entrepreneurship programs.
• Support initiatives that align with state and federal economic competitiveness agendas.

Innovation and Commercialization

• Work with the Vice President and Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation, the Executive Director of the Economic Innovation Center, and the Office of Technology Transfer to advance strategies for technology transfer, commercialization, and startup development.
• Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and industry to identify translational research opportunities.
• Support innovation ecosystems through accelerator programs, research parks, and venture partnerships.
• Work with the Technology Transfer and Innovation Office to promote intellectual property development and industry-sponsored research.

Workforce and Talent Development

• Build partnerships that strengthen workforce pipelines, internships, apprenticeships, and experiential learning opportunities.
• Work with Academic Affairs to align academic and training programs with workforce demands and labor market trends.
• Collaborate with employers to identify skill gaps and workforce development solutions.

Grant and Resource Development

• Identify funding opportunities from federal, state, and private sources to support economic development and workforce initiatives.
• Assist in developing proposals for economic development, innovation, and workforce programs.
• Manage budgets and resources associated with strategic initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the University at economic development councils, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and community meetings.
• Work with the Vice President for Research and Innovation and Government Relations to build strong relationships with policymakers, elected officials, and regional development organizations.
• Convene internal and external stakeholders to advance collaborative projects.
• Work with key areas of Research and Innovation and the University to ensure all necessary review and memorialization of partnership agreements.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Track and report key performance indicators related to partnerships, economic impact, workforce outcomes, and innovation metrics.
• Analyze economic trends, labor market data, and industry needs to inform strategic decisions.
• Prepare reports and presentations for executive leadership and governing bodies.

Other Duties

Perform other duties as assigned to support the divisional and University mission and goals.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Superior interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire others and work collaboratively with colleagues.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to attract business and industry.
• Strong project management and organizational skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to complete tasks thoroughly, accurately, and timely; strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong sense of personal accountability.
• Self-starter with vision and the ability to create innovative strategies for achieving goals and objectives.
• Excellent judgment, diplomacy, and tact.
• Ability to successfully manage multiple projects, prioritize responsibilities, and adjust quickly to change.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to write clearly and concisely and present to individuals and groups of varying sizes.
• Ability to articulate compelling cases for engagement with the University.
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and core values of Bowie State University.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint, Excel, and Word.

MINIMUM TRAINING & EXPERIENCE:

Education: Master's degree in economic development, urban planning, public administration, marketing, or a related field is required.

Experience: Five (5) years of experience in economic development, public-private partnerships, or a related field; experience in business development and/or partnership development; and experience developing and managing successful partnerships with public, private, and institutional stakeholders.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Background check required. Evening work and local travel may be required.

Additional Job Information:

Benefits include medical, dental, prescription, long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment insurance and life insurance; paid time for paid sick leave, annual leave, and personal leave; 12 paid holidays per year, tuition remission; employer-funded pension and supplemental retirement accounts.