Program Director, Innovation Fellows Initiative, Cornell Tech (NYC)

Cornell University•New York, NY

4d•$102,300 - $134,500•Hybrid

About The Position

The Urban Tech Hub at Cornell Tech’s Jacobs Institute is seeking a Program Director for the Urban Innovation Fellows Program. This program aims to enhance innovation processes within New York City by creating a community of Fellows who will work directly within local government agencies. The program, launched in 2024, codifies and shares innovation best practices, and is expanding to include more agencies and a larger cohort. The Director will be responsible for the program's design, implementation, management, and monitoring. Fellows will commit to a two-year, full-time role, embedded in agencies to support technology projects, document innovation delivery, and implement data collection systems to accelerate tech adoption and advance government innovation. The position is a full-time, benefits-eligible staff role for a 2-year term with the potential for renewal, located on the Cornell Tech campus in New York City. Visa sponsorship is not available. The starting salary range is $102,300 to $134,500.

Requirements

Master’s degree and 3-5 years’ relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
Background and demonstrated interest in urban tech policy and implementation.
Familiarity with technology pilot design/execution, data collection and analysis and strong analytical and writing skills
Exhibits leadership and project management responsibilities; positive and proactive “can do” attitude.
Demonstrates a collaborative demeanor to build rapport and establish credibility with stakeholders and in maintaining relationships with the Urban Tech Hub’s partners.
Demonstrates an empathetic, flexible and diplomatic management style characterized by collaboration that empowers Fellows, sets high expectations, and holds colleagues accountable.
Excellent communication skills in writing, meetings, and presentations.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills with a proactive approach to work responsibilities.
Proven ability to deftly navigate complex projects with all stakeholders.
Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
Demonstrated skill in understanding of cultural differences.
Proven experience connecting inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing practices to business goals.

Nice To Haves

At least 10 years of work experience preferred.
Experience working in NYC or other local government
Experience with designing, developing, and deploying technology pilots in complex environments

Responsibilities

Create, lead and direct program design, scope technology deployment projects with agencies, and develop metrics of success along with program monitoring.
Develop and oversee the implementation of programmatic policies and procedures.
Develop a cohesive vision and direction for the programs; oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive and coordinated programmatic model that addresses partner needs; provide direct leadership for program development.
Develop and oversee plans and expected milestones to address identified deficits; develop assessment plans for remediation and follow up on progress toward goals.
Develop and manage program budget.
Develop strategic and operational planning for Innovation Fellows Program.
Hire, manage and direct Fellows, providing day-to-day project management and identify project blockers.
Lead and supervise a cohort of Innovation Fellows; conduct performance management, performance dialogues, ongoing coaching and counseling, and growth and professional development opportunities.
Cultivate and maintain collaborative relationships with other colleagues across campus to promote the incorporation of programs in the Cornell Tech community; oversee the internal and external planning needs and accountability requirements; oversee the development and implementation of solutions.
Develop and oversee the annual reporting and the development of reports and documentation as requested by funder, NYC partner agencies and Cornell Tech.
Communicate and confer with key partners and stakeholders; including agencies, City Hall staff, academic colleagues, funders, and industry partners.
Manage relationships with all public sector stakeholders; resolve highly complex concerns and problems; assure resolution of participants' concerns by nurturing relationships and collaboration with other areas.
Manage relationships with any outside funders or other key programmatic partners.
Direct the development of program publications and other resources and marketing tools to create a comprehensive marketing and communication strategy.
Direct all public relations efforts and inform high-visibility stakeholders about the program development and accomplishments.
Document the Team’s progress in all stages and develop a communications strategy to amplify program, research and pilot findings.
Represent Cornell Tech and Fellows Program at high-profile public forums and events; publishing findings in trade and other media outlets.
Attend local and national conferences, convenings and other relevant public events to advance knowledge and amplify impact of program.
Participate in projects with occasional work responsibility falling above or below current classification.
Completion of any university required compliance trainings.