What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Innovation position at Knoxville Chamber (Knoxville, Tennessee)?
The director of innovation is responsible for overseeing the chamber’s regional innovation efforts including the areas of technology transfer and commercialization, patent exposure, innovation infrastructure, access to capital, entrepreneurship, and more. The role designs opportunities that will lead to a more robust innovation ecosystem which will eventually increase the City of Knoxville and Knox County’s average annual pay. The director of innovation will work regularly with key partners including chamber investors, private businesses, academic institutions, city, county, and state government representatives, state and regional entrepreneurial organizations, and community stakeholders.
- Engage with external ecosystems, such as private businesses, including startups, research institutions, and other partners, to source and implement novel solutions
- Conduct research and analyze best practices and tactics to support strategic goals
- Identify emerging trends and develop initiatives and programming that advance them
- Willingness to be flexible, adaptable, and proactive in a constantly changing environment
- Provide strategic counsel and expertise to the vice president of regional enhancement on matters of innovation
- Create and foster relationships with key partners across the region, state, and country
- Communicate pertinent business information to other chamber departments
- Work with the vice chair of innovation to operate the innovation council
Preferred qualifications and competencies:
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Proven manager of processes and systems with attention to detail
- History of being innovative, resourceful, and creative
- Proven ability to successfully work through complex issues and projects
- Understanding and appreciation for the use of data in innovation efforts
- Exhibit strong executive presence as reflected by behavior, appearance, demeanor, and posture
- Proven executive, strategic, and long-term critical thinking capacity
- Impeccable presentation, writing, and communication skills
- Exemplary skills in leadership, interpersonal relations, and ethics
- Willingness to be flexible, adaptable, and proactive in a constantly changing environment
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
Working conditions:
- Occasional travel for meetings
- Some evenings and weekends may be required
- Work under and maintain confidentiality