Director Muskegon Innovation Hub

Grand Valley State University • Muskegon, MI

14d • $88,000 - $117,000

About The Position

This position is a visionary leader responsible for driving the strategic direction, growth, and operational success of the Muskegon Innovation Hub. This role fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the region by creating partnerships, securing funding, and delivering programs that support startups, small businesses, and the community. This position ensures alignment with the university's mission while advancing the Hub's reputation as a center for innovation and collaboration.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, economic development, or a related field.
• Minimum seven (7) years of leadership experience in innovation, entrepreneurship, economic development, or related areas.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, program development, and operational management.
• Proven ability to build and maintain partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in securing and managing grants, sponsorships, or other funding sources.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to lead other staff and function independently with wide degree of creativity and latitude of action while also keeping senior management current on progress and critical operational issues.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the West Michigan/Lakeshore region’s economic, cultural, and educational landscape.
• Experience leading or working within a university-based innovation center or business incubator.
• Knowledge of trends in technology, entrepreneurship, and community development.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to enhance the Hub’s impact on innovation and entrepreneurship in Muskegon and the surrounding areas. Align the Hub’s initiatives with GVSU’s mission, values, and strategic goals. Foster an inclusive culture of collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Program Development and Management: Oversee the design, delivery, and evaluation of programs and services that support entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. Identify emerging trends and opportunities in innovation and implement responsive programs. Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and continuously improve services to maximize impact.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate and maintain relationships with local, regional, and state stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Serve as a spokesperson for the Hub, representing its mission and achievements to the community and media.
• Resource Development: Lead fundraising efforts, including securing grants, sponsorships, and other financial support. Collaborate with GVSU leadership and external partners to expand the Hub’s resources and sustainability.
• Operational and Financial Management: Manage the day-to-day operations of the Hub, including staff supervision, budget oversight, and infrastructure maintenance. Manage the physical and technological infrastructure of the Hub to support its programs and services.
• Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and develop the Hub’s team to foster professional growth and engagement. Create an inclusive, empowering workplace environment.
• Perform other duties as required/assigned by leadership.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director