Executive Director of Business Technology Innovations

Job Description:

About Brown

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more.  To learn about Brown University’s benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page here for further information.

About The Opportunity

As the most senior officer at Brown University dedicated to technology transfer, the Executive Director will architect and lead a comprehensive strategy to connect our world-class research with global industry partners, foster innovation, and drive regional economic growth. This position directs the Business Technology Innovations (BTI) unit, with ultimate responsibility for all university technology transfer, corporate engagement, and intellectual property management.

Reporting to the Vice President for Research, and working closely with the Provost, this leader will oversee the strategic stewardship of the university’s IP portfolio, the negotiation of complex licensing and research agreements, and the cultivation of a robust corporate relations program. A central focus of the role is to leverage the university's distinctive strengths—including Brown’s partner medical centers via the Brown Innovation for Research and Clinical Health (BIRCH) initiative—to build a thriving innovation ecosystem in Providence and beyond. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of innovation at a leading university and make a lasting impact on our faculty, students, and the broader community.

Qualifications

Education And Experience

• Advanced degree - Ph.D. in life sciences, engineering, or related field; MBA, or JD.
• Minimum of 10–15 years of progressively responsible experience in academic technology transfer, corporate business development, venture capital, or other relevant areas.
• Experience in both higher education and business, law, healthcare, or industry strongly preferred.
• Prior employment in a research university setting, ideally in technology licensing, corporate development, or research administration.
• Experience working with academic medical centers, clinical research enterprises, or health system partnerships.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with government agencies, industry consortia, and statewide or regional partners to strengthen innovation ecosystems.

Skills And Knowledge

• Proven management experience leading teams of professionals.
• Significant experience in sourcing, designing, and negotiating complex collaboration agreements and intellectual property licenses.
• Knowledge of patents and intellectual property principles.
• Business experience, preferably with responsibility for organizational performance and team leadership.
• Demonstrated record of achievement, increasing responsibility, and successful outcomes.
• Sales and marketing experience desirable.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Leadership And Competencies

• Deep appreciation for the mission and values of Brown University, with the ability to articulate them effectively to external partners.
• Visionary and entrepreneurial leadership, with capacity for innovative strategic thinking.
• Strong analytical capacity to evaluate opportunities and challenges using qualitative and quantitative data.
• Exceptional communication and persuasion skills, with the ability to engage diverse internal and external constituencies.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Collaborative and collegial orientation, with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Integrity, work ethic, diplomacy, and sound judgment.

Additional Information

Applicants are asked to include a cover letter and resume with their application. 

We are unable to offer Visa Sponsorship for this position.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

Benefits Of Working At Brown:

Information on the Benefits of Working at Brown can be found here.

Recruiting Start Date:

2025-10-03

Job Posting Title:

Executive Director of Business Technology Innovations

Department:

Division of Research

Grade:

Grade 15

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Hybrid Eligible

Statement on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion:

All positions require demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and other Brown and community stakeholders with diverse perspectives and demonstrated ability to contribute to an inclusive environment.

Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Eeo Statement:

Brown University is an E-Verify Employer.

As an EEO employer, Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.