Strategic Initiatives Manager

Position Summary:

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) drives innovation at the intersection of technology, education, and industry. Through our Digital Transformation Center (DTC), we cultivate strategic partnerships that advance digital capabilities and develop tomorrow's workforce. Our collaborative ecosystem brings together government agencies, academic institutions, and industry partners to solve complex challenges and create pathways to technical careers. Join our team as a Strategic Initiatives Manager!

Position Overview

We are seeking a forward-thinking Strategic Initiatives Manager to support the DTC leadership in executing a comprehensive talent ecosystem strategy. This role will implement key initiatives that build the foundation for the DTC's future educational programming and partnerships in alignment with the broader strategy established by DTC leadership.

This senior-level role is a unique blend of strategy, innovation, and program management. The ideal candidate is a mission-driven professional who thrives in cross-sector collaboration. He/she will execute initiatives that bridge skill gaps, establish sustainable partnerships with academic institutions and community organizations, and develop frameworks for meaningful engagement opportunities for learners at all levels. This position requires both strategic thinking, an entrepreneurial mindset, and practical program management skills to implement foundational programs that advance the DTC's vision of becoming a premier regional hub for technical education and innovation. This is a high-impact role for someone who thrives on building new systems, engaging diverse stakeholders, and designing scalable initiatives from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with DTC leadership to launch and scale initiatives that integrate digital material management principles and align with USAF needs while remaining adaptable to emerging technologies and evolving requirements for the entire talent pipeline from K-12 through current workforce.

Cultivate strategic partnerships between academic institutions, industry, and government agencies in accordance with the DTC's overall strategy.

Create frameworks for future educational offerings and collaborative learning experiences that will utilize the DTC's specialized facilities once completed.

Design and deliver programs that enable impactful work-based learning experiences across educational levels, including internships, capstone projects, and industry collaborations.

Create scalable STEM outreach initiatives that establish progressive pathways from K-12 through professional development, with emphasis on increasing participation among underrepresented groups.

Implement flexible training approaches that upskill current DOD and industry professionals while preparing future talent through customized learning experiences.

Establish methods to measure program effectiveness and participant outcomes that demonstrate impact and inform continuous improvement.

Support external communications and thought leadership initiatives to position the DTC as a regional leader in technical education and talent development.

Represent the DTC in various settings to promote collaboration, secure resources, and advance innovation.

Monitor industry trends and technological developments to ensure training initiatives remain relevant and forward-looking, providing strategic recommendations to DTC leadership.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in business, policy, technical fields, education or related field, plus 6 years of relevant experience, OR a Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience.

Proven experience in planning, managing, and executing complex programs, preferably in technical or digital fields.

Experience developing strategic partnerships between educational institutions and industry/government entities.

Proven ability to coordinate cross-functional teams, timelines, and deliverables in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment.

Strong project and program management skills, including experience with program design, implementation, and evaluation.

Proven track record of successful project execution, demonstrating the ability to lead complex initiatives from inception to completion with measurable outcomes.

Entrepreneurial mindset and experience thriving in fast-paced, dynamic environments. Must be comfortable working as part of a small, agile team where responsibilities often shift, experimentation is encouraged, and success requires adaptability, initiative, and resilience.

Proven ability to take ownership, learn from failure, and contribute to building and scaling new programs, partnerships, or initiatives from the ground up.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage