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- Tasks: Lead strategic partnerships and secure funding for innovative research projects.
- Company: Join Conestoga College, a leader in education and research excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with flexible remote options and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving research initiatives and collaborating with diverse partners.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and seven years of relevant experience in research funding and partnerships required.
- Other info: Position involves travel and on-campus work at Conestoga’s Office of Research Services.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Manager, Strategic Research Partnerships Development role at Conestoga College School of Business.
Position Summary
Full-Time Administration, new position. Reporting to the Director, Research Engagement, the Manager, Strategic Research Partnerships Development identifies, builds, and manages partnerships that support the strategic research goals of the college. The Manager plays a pivotal role in strategically identifying and developing new research funding opportunities that align with the college’s capabilities and support the expansion and diversification of the college’s portfolio of research partnerships and funding sources. The incumbent will scout for potential academic and industry partners that align with the organization’s research priorities and analyze trends in research and innovation to find promising collaboration areas. Successful candidates will be required to conduct work within Ontario and must be available to work on campus as required. It is anticipated that this position will meet the needs of the department through a hybrid work arrangement, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with three days on-site at Conestoga’s Office of Research Services, located at 96 Grand Ave. S. in Cambridge, and two days remote. Travel to partner sites, off-campus locations, and other campuses will be required.
Responsibilities
- Strategic partnership development: Identify funding opportunities that align with the college’s research capabilities and goals, focusing on larger, multi-year or multi-project funding opportunities. Identify and prioritize high-value partners across sectors for potential engagement in large-scale research initiatives. Develop long-term engagement plans for strategic partnerships, including targeted outreach and relationship building. Explore consortium-building opportunities and facilitate ideation workshops. Identify opportunities to lead joint grant applications with partners, utilizing complementary skills and resources. Maintain a database of up-to-date research capabilities of faculty and research centres and labs.
- Funding acquisition: Lead the end-to-end process for large-scale, multi-partner or multi-project funding opportunities. Manage proposal writing activities and work with researchers and the Research Operations team to ensure all technical, financial, and administrative components receive internal approvals and meet funder guidelines and deadlines. Manage the development, writing, and submission of research funding applications to a range of external funding agencies, including federal and provincial funders, private foundations, and international programs.
- Relationship management: Negotiate high-stakes collaboration agreements, MOUs, and consortia agreements that govern large strategic projects. Oversee contract execution and compliance, ensuring deliverables and reporting commitments are met. Maintain executive-level relationships and serve as the primary point of contact for strategic projects. Monitor project milestones, financial performance, and partnership impact metrics; implement corrective actions as needed.
- Strategic reporting and insights: Maintain internal research information management system database, build dashboards and reports on strategic partnership pipeline, funding outcomes, and ROI for senior leadership. Provide insights and recommendations to shape institutional research strategy.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in arts, science, engineering, or business is required.
- Seven years of relevant practical work experience, including experience with proposal writing and government funding programs.
- Ability to secure and manage large-scale research funding and strategic partnerships.
- Understanding of major funding programs and mechanisms.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Proficient with online collaboration tools such as Microsoft Office (Teams, SharePoint, Word, Planner, etc.).
- Familiarity with collaborative research frameworks, consortium governance, and R&D tax credits.
- Understanding of CRM and proposal management platforms for tracking relationships and opportunities.
- Access to reliable transportation and ability to travel to Conestoga campus locations, partner sites, and event venues as required.
Manager, Strategic Research Partnerships Development employer: Conestoga College School of Business
Contact Detail:
Conestoga College School of Business Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Manager, Strategic Research Partnerships Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network strategically within the academic and industry sectors relevant to Conestoga College's research priorities. Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events where potential partners might be present, and don't hesitate to introduce yourself and discuss your interest in strategic partnerships.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in research funding and collaboration opportunities. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow key organisations on social media, and engage with thought leaders in the field to stay updated on potential funding sources and partnership opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your understanding of the college’s research capabilities and how they align with potential partners. Be ready to discuss specific examples of successful partnerships or funding initiatives you’ve been involved in, showcasing your ability to identify and develop strategic relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your negotiation skills, as this role involves high-stakes agreements. Consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor to refine your approach to negotiating collaboration agreements and managing stakeholder expectations effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Manager, Strategic Research Partnerships Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in strategic partnership development and funding acquisition. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage large-scale research projects and partnerships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and how your background aligns with the college's strategic research goals. Mention specific skills such as negotiation and stakeholder management that are crucial for this position.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work experience, focus on your achievements in proposal writing and securing funding. Include metrics or outcomes that illustrate your success in previous roles, especially in relation to research partnerships.
Highlight Communication Skills: Given the importance of communication in this role, emphasise your exceptional communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with stakeholders or partners in the past.
How to prepare for a job interview at Conestoga College School of Business
✨Research the College's Strategic Goals
Before the interview, take some time to understand Conestoga College's strategic research goals and priorities. This will help you align your answers with their objectives and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Partnership Development Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully identified and developed strategic partnerships in the past. Highlight any relevant experience with funding acquisition and managing multi-partner projects, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As the role requires exceptional communication and negotiation skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to explain complex ideas simply, especially when discussing collaboration agreements or funding proposals.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Research Initiatives
Have a few insightful questions ready about the college's current research initiatives and future plans. This shows that you're proactive and genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their success.
