Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:20254353SPosition Title:IIE Assistant DirectorPosition Type:StaffLocation:Villanova, PARecruitment Type:Internal/External ApplicantsWork Schedule:full-time/12-monthsAvg Hours WeekDepartment:100-ProvostPosition Summary:
The Assistant Director, Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IIE) actively implements programmatic, educational, and professional development opportunities in the related areas of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the Villanova community. The Assistant Director will manage the daily operations and programming of the Idea Lab, and foster an environment that promotes innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship to advance student learning and programmatic outcomes. They organize, implement, and assist in the development of signature IIE programs and events. They support general and program-oriented stakeholder engagement and IIE marketing, communication, mentorship, and other community-building activities related to IIE.
This position requires occasional evening, early morning, and weekend availability depending on program schedules.
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University’s mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Daily Operations and Facility Management
- Oversee daily operations and programs of the IIE Idea Lab (Falvey Library), creating an environment that promotes innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship to support student learning and program outcomes.
- Supervise the daily operations and maintenance of the maker lab, ensuring all tools, machines, and equipment are functional, organized, and properly maintained.
- Manage the Idea Lab’s schedule, student worker and administrative coverage, program and event setup, technology and supplies, and overall facility operations.
- Supervise student workers and provide additional administrative support to the Institute as needed.
Program Development and Implementation
- Plan, organize, and assist in the development of signature IIE programs and events, including entrepreneurial and business plan events (e.g., Pitch Day and the Idea Challenge), student travel and immersion programs (e.g., Villanova in the Valley), competitions, workshops, and guest speaker events.
Engagement and Communication
- Manage IIE social media channels and collaborate with college communications teams for website updates and promotional outreach.
- Foster collaboration with students, faculty, and staff across the University to support IIE initiatives and engage with the Institute’s advisory council.
- Advise and counsel alumni, students, and faculty on entrepreneurial opportunities and endeavors.
Strategic Development
- Work closely with the IIE Director to develop new programs and strategies.
- Research best practices in innovation and entrepreneurship programming, and create metrics to evaluate program success.
Perform other duties and assist with projects as assigned. (5%)
Minimum Qualifications:
Formal Education
- Bachelor’s degree required.
Work Experience
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience managing projects or programs in roles requiring innovative, creative, and/or entrepreneurial skills.
Work Skills (e.g., written and verbal communication skills)
- Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills. Ablility to work with and gain the respect and confidence of students, faculty, alumni, industry practioners and administrators. Demonstrated marketing, social media, and public relations skills and ability to effectively manage multiple projects in a fast paced environment.
- Technical skills: Experience with video editing, graphic design, web development, or database management (e.g., AirTable).
Specific Job Knowledge (e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area)
- Must demonstrate competency in advancing the principles of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship within a startup or organizational environment.
- Must possess knowledge of best practices in program design and management, leading to beneficial student outcomes. Must be proficient in all standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office products.
Equipment Knowledge
- Standard computer hardware and software. Web development capabilities.
Other:
- The individual must have a deep commitment to the well-being of the University, a commitment to the University’s Catholic/Augustinian heritage, and the advancement of its mission, and to serving the needs of a diverse community.
Preferred Qualifications:
Formal Education
- Graduate degree preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Work Experience
- Knowledge and experience connecting with the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem preferred.
Work Skills (e.g., written and verbal communication skills)
- Technical skills: Familiarity with CAD/SketchUp, 3D printing, or laser cutting is a plus.
Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
a.) Tools, machinery and equipment used:
b.) Environmental conditions: (any unusual/adverse conditions such as exposure to chemicals, noise, illumination, air quality, weather exposure etc.).
c.) Physical requirements: (items such as lifting, pushing, pulling, standing or sitting for extended periods of time, manual dexterity, walking etc.)
Special Message to Applicants:Posting Date:05/05/2025Closing Date (11:59pm ET):Salary Posting Information:
Commensurate with experience.
Salary Band:14Job Classification:exempt
