Temporary Director, Industry Development
Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Chief Commercialization Officer & VP, Industry Innovation, in this 13-month contract, the Director, Industry Development will be responsible for sourcing opportunities to maximize engagement with and sponsorship for the Canadian AI ecosystem.
The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic thinking, sales acumen, and a foundational understanding of digital and emerging technologies, including an awareness of AI and its application within the enterprise space. With a track record of securing significant accounts and driving revenue growth, the candidate will play a pivotal role in achieving Vector’s mission and driving widespread adoption of AI in industry.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and execute on targeted plans, strategies, and relationships to proactively generate leads and increase the number of Vector enterprise sponsors;
Identify key market opportunities, develop innovative business development strategies, and execute tactical plans to drive revenue growth and market expansion;
Ensure strong and effective communication between Vector and prospective industry sponsors, identifying opportunities to articulate the value proposition of our AI solutions to prospective customers while making sure that messaging resonates with their specific needs and challenges;
Identify, build, and nurture relationships with key stakeholders within large enterprises;
Proactively identify new opportunities for business growth and expansion;
Work closely with internal cross-functional teams to meet customer requirements and exceed expectations.
Promote industry sponsor participation in Vector’s additional value-add services such as involvement in Vector job fairs and enrollment in Vector courses;
Develop, implement, and maintain ongoing progress reports, sponsor profiles, and other processes and tools designed to measure achievement of sponsorship goals, improve operational efficiency, and refine and reinforce strategies in a timely, proactive manner, utilizing Vector’s CRM system as needed. Share these resources within the Industry Innovation work stream and broader organization as required;
Support partner work streams in the design and implementation of student-focused initiatives and programmes such as job fairs, online job postings, and internships within industry that help to address AI talent needs;
Engage in the Canadian AI ecosystem to help position Vector as a critical element in leading and facilitating economic growth and social impact by participating in business and community events and presenting at conferences, seminars, and workshops as a spokesperson for Vector; and,
Other related duties and projects as assigned.
KEY SUCCESS MEASURES
Implementation of strategic business development initiatives resulting in exceeded sales targets and revenue growth;
Internal and external stakeholder feedback is such that Vector’s Industry Innovation team provides high quality service, support, and impactful data/resources as required;
Sponsor feedback is such that Vector’s programs and offerings are valuable and help to improve and inform various internal processes; and,
Demonstrated ability to meet annually agreed upon revenue targets.
PROFILE OF THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
Holds, at a minimum, a graduate degree.
Has a minimum of 5-7 years of demonstrated success in cultivating and securing large multinational enterprise accounts.
Strong understanding of digital and emerging technologies, including an essential awareness of artificial intelligence and its application within large enterprises.
Must possess strong strategic thinking ability and be capable of identifying key market opportunities, developing innovative business development strategies, and executing tactical plans to drive revenue growth and market expansion.
Ability to operate with a sense of urgency and motivation in a fast-paced environment. Thrives under pressure, possess exceptional time management skills, and is driven by ambitious goals and targets.
Excellent interpersonal skills, a consultative approach to sales, and the ability to foster long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships with customers.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, for effectively conveying the value proposition of our AI solutions to potential customers.
Experience creating proposals, presentations and other persuasive documents, in alignment with established organizational guidelines.
Adaptable to evolving market dynamics and possess a mindset of continuous innovation.
Collaborative team player.
Knowledgeable on the latest AI trends, industry developments, and emerging technologies, enabling them to articulate the value proposition of Vector AI initiatives to prospective customers effectively.
Deep experience and broad relationships across Ontario within industry is considered an asset.
Experience working with academics and/or within an academic environment or non-profit is an asset.
At the Vector Institute, we are committed to driving excellence and leadership in Canada’s knowledge, creation, and use of AI to foster economic growth and improve the lives of Canadians. We strive for greater inclusion in the programs and culture that we build by welcoming and encouraging applications from all qualified candidates. This includes but is not limited to applicants who are indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, racialized persons/visible minorities, women, and people with disabilities.
If you require an accommodation at any point throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact **@ve*************.ai%C2%A0″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>**@ve*************.ai and we will happily work with you to meet your needs.
How to Apply
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