Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

Job Description

The IDEA Center is the University of Notre Dame’s hub for technology commercialization and a key driver of entrepreneurship across campus. We work with Notre Dame faculty, researchers, postdocs, and students to move research and innovations from the lab to the marketplace, supporting the University’s mission to be a force for good and to drive impact beyond academia.

The University of Notre Dame is seeking an Executive Director to lead the IDEA Center. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of innovation and entrepreneurship at Notre Dame by translating cutting-edge research into real-world solutions.

The Executive Director will oversee commercialization strategy, faculty engagement, IP management, operations, and partnerships, driving outcomes that elevate the University’s impact on industry, society, and the broader innovation ecosystem. This role reports to the Vice President of Research.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic direction for technology commercialization and entrepreneurship activities.
• Cultivate relationships with university leaders, faculty, alumni, industry, and community stakeholders.
• Serve as the IDEA Center’s ambassador to campus and external audiences, including Notre Dame’s Board of Trustees and donors.
• Oversee the full life cycle of innovation, from invention disclosure to licensing or startup formation.
• Ensure compliance with federal research commercialization policies and University IP policy.
• Develop and enforce policies on intellectual property ownership, revenue sharing, and conflicts of interest.
• Manage the IDEA Center’s people, facilities, and financial resources.
• In partnership with Notre Dame Research (NDR), oversee annual budgeting and capital planning.
• Recruit, retain, and support a high-performing team across functions.
• Represent the IDEA Center across internal and external events, and promote Notre Dame's innovation ecosystem.
• Oversee the University’s relationship with High Alpha Innovation and the 1842 Fund.
• Engage alumni, donors, and industry partners to expand opportunities for commercialization and investment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of leadership experience in technology commercialization, startup development, or innovation strategy.
• Demonstrated success in translating new technologies into commercial outcomes.
• Ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• Experience building strong relationships with faculty, researchers, or academic leadership in a university or research-focused environment.
• Proven ability to manage multi-level teams, budgets, and operations.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• STEM undergraduate degree paired with an MBA, JD, or PhD in a technical discipline.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with research commercialization at a research-intensive university.
• Familiarity with AUTM metrics and university intellectual property policies.
• Strategic partnerships experience with industry and investors.
• Background spanning multiple industries or innovation ecosystems.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strategic vision and leadership
• Stakeholder and relationship management
• Technology transfer and commercializationIntellectual property policy and compliance
• Operations, budgeting, and team leadership
• Academic and student entrepreneurship support
• Communication and external engagement

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

At Notre Dame, we know our impact depends on exceptional people, people like you. We are committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming community. In keeping with our mission, we encourage applications from all who will help build and strengthen our beloved community. We strive to empower every employee to flourish, knowing your success propels Notre Dame to new heights of impact.