Sr. Strategic Advisor, Industry (DIBI)

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. 

Requirement:

U.S. citizenship is required due to federal contract obligations.

Additional Information:

This is a 1-year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal based off of continuing external funding. This is a part-time, senior advisory role requiring flexible availability for meetings, events, and strategic planning sessions. The position offers the opportunity to shape the future of defense industrial base collaboration and innovation at a national level.

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Strategic Advisor provides high-level strategic guidance to the Defense Industrial Base Institute Director, Executive Director, and leadership team to enhance institutional impact and effectiveness. This role focuses on expanding DIBI's collaborative research model that unites academia, industry, and government to accelerate innovation, develop best practices, and facilitate the application of emerging technologies. The advisor will help establish and oversee a comprehensive industry engagement framework supporting both national and international expansion.

Minimum Qualifications

• Distinguished senior-level government/flag-rank experience in maritime and national security

• Demonstrated expertise on ports, waterways, and maritime industry as well as defense industrial base operations and policy

• Proven track record in strategic planning and stakeholder engagement

• Strong leadership experience in multi-sector collaboration initiatives

Key Responsibilities

DIBI Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with DIBI Director and Executive Director to establish strategic partnerships with key agencies including Coast Guard, Navy, MARAD, and other US Department of Transportation, Defense, and Commerce stakeholders.

• Facilitate high-level government-industry-academia collaboration opportunities

• Leverage professional networks to expand DIBI's reach and influence

Strategic Planning & Leadership

• Contribute to institutional strategic planning processes and long-term vision development

• Participate in strategic planning meetings and provide expert guidance on organizational direction

• Conduct regular consultation meetings with DIBI Director and Executive Director

• Advise on resource allocation and priority setting

Strategic and Industry Advisory Board Leadership

• Provide strategic direction for the Strategic Advisory Board and Industry Advisory Board

• Develop meeting agendas and facilitate productive discussions aligned with DIBI's mission

• Identify and assist with recruiting highly qualified advisory board members with relevant expertise

• Prepare comprehensive written summaries and recommendations from each meeting

• Coordinate follow-up actions and implementation of board recommendations

Institutional Participation & Representation

• Actively participate in key DIBI meetings and events, including:

• • DIBI collaborator calls

  • Weekly DIBI team meeting

  • DIBI retreats and annual meetings

• Represent DIBI at additional meetings and events as requested by leadership

Research & Network Development

• Support rapid solution team initiatives through expert recruitment and guidance

• Recommend subject matter experts from the Advisory Boards for Rapid Solution Team participation

• Provide strategic oversight and feedback during Rapid Solutions Team development

• Facilitate network expansion through strategic relationship building

• Attend events and provide substantive input on research directions

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit