Executive Director, RAPID Manufacturing Institute

AIChE, founded in 1908, is a professional society of more than 60,000 chemical engineers in 110 countries. Its members work in corporations, universities, and government, using their knowledge of chemical processes to develop safe and useful products for the benefit of society. AIChE fosters and disseminates chemical engineering knowledge, assists the professional and personal growth of its members, and applies the expertise of its members to address societal needs and improve the quality of life. Through its varied programs, AIChE continues to be a focal point for information exchange on the frontiers of chemical engineering research in such areas as energy, sustainability, biological and environmental engineering, nanotechnology, and chemical plant safety and security.

The RAPID Manufacturing Institute, part of the Manufacturing USA network, operates out of AIChE, in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE), as a collaborative technology ecosystem (development, scale-up, education) to enable the transformation of the process industries for a decarbonized, energy and capital efficient future further advancing U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, smart, and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead the RAPID Advancement in Process Intensification Deployment (RAPID) Manufacturing Institute. The ED will develop and implement a long-term vision for RAPID, structure and grow the team to meet this vision, and oversee the management of the team and operations of the institute.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop a vision and strategic plan for the long-term sustainability of the RAPID business unit of AIChE
• Identify key partnerships, members, and other activities that RAPID should pursue to implement the strategic plan
• Ensure alignment of new projects and existing activities with RAPID’s strategic plan and long-term vision.
• Lead and motivate a dedicated team of staff, fostering a culture of respect, integrity and collaboration.
• Conduct performance evaluations with RAPID team members, providing guidance and resources to support their success.
• Provide the necessary feedback and team structure to cultivate effective team dynamics
• Develop and manage the annual budget for RAPID
• Provide general oversight of all RAPID activities to ensure a smoothly functioning, efficient, and growing organization
• Establish and maintain close relationship with the Department of Energy (DOE), other governmental organizations, and the other Manufacturing USA institutes.
• Represent RAPID at both AIChE and RAPID events as well as external events
• Lead the RAPID Governing Board (GB) and Executive Committee meetings and ensure their effectiveness and alignment with the RAPID bylaws
• Oversee the RAPID CTO to enable the execution of a successful technical portfolio
• Stay informed of the state of advanced manufacturing technologies and the related needs of the RAPID industry stakeholders

Competencies:

• Strategic Visioning & Planning – Develop and execute a long-term strategy for RAPID’s growth and impact.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Build and strengthen partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
• Organizational Leadership – Scale RAPID by structuring teams, optimizing operations, and driving growth.
• Financial Management – Oversee budgets, secure funding, and allocate resources strategically.
• Policy & Government Relations – Navigate DOE partnerships, funding, and regulatory landscapes.
• Technology & Innovation – Align RAPID’s portfolio with emerging industry trends and needs.
• Change Management – Lead through industry shifts, ensuring adaptability and competitiveness.
• Executive Governance – Guide RAPID’s Board and Executive Committee to ensure strategic alignment.

Requirements

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related discipline required, with MS or PhD preferred.
• Prior success in growing a small company or business unit by creating stakeholder value and managing a highly skilled team
• Experience managing large project teams, business units, or a small business 
• Organized and strategic thinker who can move from ideation through to execution 
• Ability to translate broad goals into achievable steps, anticipate and solve problems, and take advantage of opportunities.
• Ability to motivate and enable others to work toward a shared vision
• Collaborative mindset
• Willingness to listen to the opinions