Assistant Vice Chancellor for Innovation and Economic Engagement

University of Mississippi

About The Position

The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), the state’s flagship university, is a Carnegie R1 (Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity) institution recognized for its strong commitment to excellence in research, education, and public engagement. The Office of Research and Economic Development (ORED) drives the university’s mission to transform discovery into impact across Mississippi and beyond. ORED supports faculty and student research, fosters cross-sector partnerships, and advances innovation and economic growth through initiatives such as Insight Park, the Innovation Hub, and technology transfer and entrepreneurship programs. The Assistant Vice Chancellor for Innovation and Economic Engagement (AVC-IEE) serves as a key leader within ORED, responsible for accelerating the university’s innovation ecosystem and strengthening its role as an engine of economic and social progress. The AVC-IEE will develop and lead strategies that connect university research and creativity to commercialization, entrepreneurship, and community and regional economic development. A primary focus of this role will include supporting the development and management of a new venture fund designed to accelerate the growth of university-affiliated startups.

Requirements

Master’s degree in business administration, public policy, science, engineering, or a related field required; doctorate preferred.
At least 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience in research administration, economic development, or technology commercialization.
Proven ability to create and sustain partnerships across academia, industry, and government.
Deep knowledge of technology transfer, innovation ecosystems, and startup development.
Strong leadership, communication, and strategic vision.
Commitment to fostering inclusive innovation that benefits communities across Mississippi.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a research university environment and familiarity with Mississippi’s innovation landscape.
Track record of securing external funding or investment, specifically in the context of venture capital or seed funds.
Collaborative, visionary leadership that supports the University of Mississippi’s mission to drive progress through research, innovation, and engagement.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive innovation and economic engagement strategy aligned with the university’s strategic research priorities.
Expand and strengthen programs that advance technology transfer, intellectual property management, and startup creation.
Support the development and management of a new venture fund to catalyze university spin-offs and early-stage ventures.
Build partnerships among faculty, students, industry, entrepreneurs, investors, and government agencies.
Collaborate with community and state economic development organizations to encourage investment, workforce growth, and business innovation across Mississippi.
Oversee the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including engagement with Innovate Mississippi, Insight Park, and the Innovation Hub.
Integrate innovation and entrepreneurship into academic and experiential learning opportunities.
Represent the university on state, regional, and national partnerships related to innovation, research, and economic growth.
Manage staff and budgets in areas involving corporate partnerships, industry engagement, and community innovation initiatives.
Monitor performance and assess the impact of economic engagement programs and investments.
Communicate Ole Miss’s innovation and entrepreneurship successes to internal and external audiences.