Programs Director, Innovation

Company Overview

NobleReach Foundation is a civic leadership platform committed to rekindling a spirit of national service across all career stages. We believe the greatest challenges facing America demand technology, science, and business leaders fluent in government, industry, and academia—leaders who belong across sectors, not confined to one. We’re a hub where current and aspiring leaders can connect to opportunities that can meet their ambition for personal success and their passion to impact the world through public service.

Job Overview

The Programs Director, Innovation leads the operational execution of NobleReach's Innovation programs, bridging strategic vision with tactical implementation. This role manages a team of innovation professionals while working closely with Senior Commercialization Advisors (SCAs) to drive technology commercialization initiatives, including ecosystem infrastructure partnerships, though program structure and execution success. The Director serves as a key liaison between program partners, performers, and internal stakeholders to ensure effective program delivery and impact.

Responsibilities

Drive operational execution of innovation programs, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives

Lead and mentor innovation team members, providing guidance on program execution and professional development

Develop and implement processes for evaluating program effectiveness and impact

Manage resource allocation across multiple programs and initiatives

Build and maintain strong relationships with program partners, founders, and stakeholders

Lead communication with program stakeholders

Lead business reviews and stakeholder workshops to drive program success

Oversee due diligence processes for technology evaluation and commercialization potential

Develop and implement repeatable playbooks, templates and other resources

Guide the development of commercialization models and supporting resources to scale our practice

Monitor and report on commercialization progress and metrics

Establish and maintain program management best practices

Develop and implement standardized processes for program execution and monitoring

Create and maintain program documentation and reporting

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred in a business, engineering or related field

7+ years of experience in technology commercialization, program management, or related field

Demonstrated success in managing complex programs and stakeholder relationships at multiple levels, including budgeting, resource management and relationships management.

Strong understanding of technology commercialization, startup and innovation processes

Experience in a people-focused role; proven ability to develop stakeholder relationships and manage expectations

Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, entrepreneurial environment; ability to exercise flexibility and good judgment in complex situations

Appetite for curiosity and desire to learn

Must have an entrepreneurial mindset with a strong desire to have an impact on society

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.