Position SummaryWe are seeking an experienced, smart, and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead the RAPID Advancement in Process Intensification Deployment (RAPID) Manufacturing Institute. The ED will develop and implement a long-term vision for RAPID, structure and grow the team to meet this vision, oversee the management of the team and the operations of the institute.
Key Responsibilities:- Develop and execute a long-term growth strategy that ensures RAPID's sustainability, industry relevance, and continued impact beyond current funding cycles.
- Serve as the primary external ambassador for RAPID, building relationships with senior leaders across industry, government, academia, and the Manufacturing USA network.
- Identify and secure new funding opportunities, strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and revenue-generating initiatives to support RAPID's mission and growth.
- Provide visionary leadership to position RAPID as the national leader in process intensification, advanced manufacturing innovation, and related workforce development activities.
- Partner with the RAPID Governing Board and Executive Committee to establish strategic priorities, evaluate organizational performance, and guide long-term decision-making.
- Lead organizational growth and transformation efforts, ensuring RAPID has the structure, talent, and capabilities necessary to achieve its strategic objectives while fostering a culture of respect, integrity and collaboration.
- Monitor emerging trends in manufacturing, energy, technology, and federal policy to proactively identify opportunities, risks, and competitive advantages for RAPID and its stakeholders.
- Establish key performance indicators and success metrics across financial performance, membership growth, project impact, stakeholder engagement, and organizational effectiveness.
- Ensure alignment of new projects and existing activities with RAPID's strategic plan and long-term vision.
- Participate with AIChE leadership to ensure consistency of strategy and practices across AIChE and RAPID.
Competencies:- Strategic Visioning & Planning - Develop and execute a long-term strategy for RAPID's growth and impact.
- Stakeholder Engagement - Build and strengthen partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
- Organizational Leadership - Scale RAPID by structuring teams, optimizing operations, and driving growth.
- Financial Management - Oversee budgets, secure funding, and allocate resources strategically.
- Policy & Government Relations - Navigate government partnerships, funding, and regulatory landscapes.
- Technology & Innovation - Align RAPID's portfolio with emerging industry trends and needs.
- Change Management - Lead through industry and institute shifts, ensuring adaptability and competitiveness.
- Executive Governance - Guide RAPID's Boards and Executive Committee to ensure strategic alignment.
Requirements Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or related discipline required, with MS or PhD preferred.
- Prior success in growing a small company or business unit by creating stakeholder value and managing a highly skilled team
- Experience managing large project teams, business units, or a small business
- Organized and strategic thinker who can move from ideation through to execution
- Ability to translate broad goals into achievable steps, anticipate and solve problems, and take advantage of opportunities.
- Ability to motivate and enable others to work toward a shared vision
- Collaborative mindset
- Willingness to listen to the opinions and perspectives of others
- Knowledge of, and experience with, the Dept. of Energy and the Manufacturing USA Institutes
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).
Benefits- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and personal days
- Retirement plan with employer matching contributions
- Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare and Dependent Care)
- Pre-tax commuter benefits
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
CompensationThe annual salary range for this role is $200,000 - $300,000 , commensurate with experience.
Work Environment This is a demanding position which requires a personal commitment to the missions of AIChE and the DOE's CMEI office, and the ability to handle a diverse project load. The position may be fulfilled via telecommuting by a candidate with demonstrated ability to work across geographic boundaries with multi-location teams. The position is expected to require 20-30% travel.
