About the position Reporting directly to the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Director of Strategic Initiatives advances the college’s mission through two core functions: Revenue Generation – Identifying, developing, and implementing innovative revenue models such as branding and naming opportunities, advertising partnerships, intellectual property commercialization, licensing agreements, and other creative strategies within a university context. Strategic Project Management – Leading and coordinating a wide range of projects throughout the year, including compliance with federal mandates, university-driven initiatives, and college-level priorities. The ideal candidate is business-savvy, creative, and highly collaborative, with a proven ability to navigate complex environments and influence outcomes. This role requires a self-starter who is organized, an exceptional communicator, and a problem-solver who focuses on solutions rather than obstacles. This is a non-supervisory role. This position will be expected to be on site a minimum of 80% of workdays in a month. Responsibilities • Identifying, developing, and implementing innovative revenue models such as branding and naming opportunities, advertising partnerships, intellectual property commercialization, licensing agreements, and other creative strategies within a university context. • Leading and coordinating a wide range of projects throughout the year, including compliance with federal mandates, university-driven initiatives, and college-level priorities. Requirements • Business acumen and strategic thinking. • Creative problem-solving and ability to overcome barriers. • High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills. • Self-starter with flexibility and resilience. • Exceptional written and verbal communication. • Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and exercise influential leadership. • Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Business Administration, Accounting, Management or related field; five to eight years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in financial management and analysis. • Demonstrated track record of success in business development, revenue generation, and/or strategic initiatives—regardless of specific degree. • Significant experience managing complex projects and leading cross-functional teams. • Strong ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders in a large, decentralized organization. • Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills. • Proficiency with project management tools and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively; or an equivalent combination of education and experience Nice-to-haves • Advanced degree (MBA, Higher Education Leadership, or related field) is a plus but not required. • Experience in higher education or nonprofit environments. • Familiarity with one or more of the following: business model development, technology transfer, entrepreneurship, licensing, branding, sponsorship agreements, or similar. • Project management certification (PMP, CAPM) or similar credentials.