Job Details

Associate Director, Innovation & Venture Development

Position Number: 6559416
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Position Type: Economic and Business Development

Associate Director, Innovation & Venture Development

Job Summary

The University of Utah is building the future of innovation - and we're looking for a connector, strategist, and startup champion to help drive it. The Associate Director, Innovation & Venture Development will play a key role in shaping and supporting high-growth ventures emerging from university research. This position will focus on helping scientific founders find the right business talent. The Associate Director will also help prepare startups to raise the capital they need to thrive and connect them with potential investors. This is a unique opportunity to sit at the center of the University's innovation ecosystem - working closely with the Technology Licensing Office (TLO), the Utah Venture Hub (UVH), faculty inventors, entrepreneurs, and investors - to accelerate the growth of breakthrough ideas into successful companies.

Responsibilities
Build Connections

Curate and manage a network of experienced advisors, executives, and mentors with expertise in relevant industries.
Align potential management teams and mentors with leadership needs across our startup portfolio.
Facilitate introductions and foster long-term relationships between startups and advisors.

Fuel Fundraising Success

Help startups craft compelling pitches, prepare investor materials, and get "deal-ready."
Connect startups to appropriate funding opportunities and help structure investment strategies.
Cultivate relationships with local, regional, and national investors, including venture capital firms, angel investors, and strategic partners.

Support Founders & Teams

Partner with TLO, Utah Venture Hub, and faculty founders to support the launch and growth of university-affiliated startups.
Assess company needs and work with founders to provide strategic guidance on business model development, commercialization strategy, and operational growth.

Grow Utah's Innovation Ecosystem

Represent the University's startup community at events, strengthen ties with entrepreneurs and investors, and spotlight the success of our ventures.
Other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Business or Public Administration, a related area, or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; plus 6-8 years of progressively more responsible management experience; and demonstrated leadership, human relations and effective communication skills also required. Master's degree in Business Administration or related area preferred.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

Track record of raising capital or supporting fundraising efforts for early-stage companies.
Experience in entrepreneurship, venture capital, startup operations, or technology commercialization.
Strong network within the investor, startup, or corporate innovation community.
Excellent communication, relationship management, and presentation skills.
Ability to work effectively with faculty inventors, entrepreneurs, and external partners.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN43070B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary: Monday - Friday (8am-5pm)Hybrid: must work 3 days in the office per week
Department: 00639 - VP for Research
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $100,000 - $120,000
Close Date: 12/9/2025
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/188678