Managing Director Science Technology and Public Policy program

Apply Now

How to Apply

A cover letter and resume are required for consideration for this position. The cover letter should be included in the same document as your resume and should specifically address your interest in this position and highlight related skills and experience.

The Ford School is committed to providing a positive and inclusive work environment. This includes providing employees with flexible work opportunities. You will generally be expected to work in the office 2-3 days per week, after an introductory training period.

Job Summary

The Science, Technology, and Public Policy program at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy is looking for a Managing Director to join our research center. The Managing Director is responsible for day-to-day operations of the STPP program, participating in and providing support for research activities, supervising educational programs, overseeing partnerships, and participating in strategic planning. You will report to the STPP Faculty Director.

Established in 2006, the STPP Program is a research center at the Ford School of Public Policy that is dedicated to advancing the public interest, and specifically social equity and justice, in the development and governance of science and technology through education, research, and community and policy engagement. Our highly interdisciplinary work addresses the ethical, political, social, environmental, health, and equity dimensions of science, technology, and related public policies. This includes a vibrant Community Partnerships Initiative that supports civil society in contributing to public and policy discussions related to science and technology policies, the Technology Assessment Project that analyzes emerging technologies and their implications by drawing lessons from historical analogs, the MiST fellowship that places experts in Michigan state government, a graduate certificate program, and undergraduate programming, among other activities. Our 74 faculty affiliates come from across UM's schools and colleges. We continue to expand STPP to meet the moment, as science and technology become increasingly central to people's daily lives around the world.

Responsibilities*

Administrative Management (20%)

• Oversee budgets, staffing, and forecasts; monitor expenditures and ensure alignment with program goals.
• Manage multiple grant award programs.
• Draft grant proposals and reports as needed.
• Identify funding opportunities and recommend program ideas aligned with potential sources.

Team Management (30%)

• Manage, direct, and coach team of 4 regular staff and 6-10 student staff to support professional development and center goals.
• Lead team meetings and internal activities
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Communications (20%)

• Develop and implement a communication strategy and marketing efforts aimed at increasing the visibility of the center, including overseeing and/or creating written materials including newsletters, policy briefs, and website/social media content.
• Coordinate STPP communications and marketing efforts with communications teams at the Ford School and the University of Michigan
• Along with the Faculty Director, represent STPP at public functions, events, workshops, academic conferences, and policy events to publicize the organization's activities and garner new opportunities.

Partnerships (30%)

• Along with the Community Partnerships Coordinator, the MiST Project Manager, and the Faculty Director, identify, develop, and cultivate new and existing partnerships with people and organizations outside of the University.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships and collaborative agreements with elected/appointed leaders, policy makers, community groups, funders, and other entities.
• Liaise with other units and departments within the Ford School, at U-M, and external to the university.

Required Qualifications*

• Graduate-level degree in public policy, science, engineering, humanities, or social sciences
• 5+ years managing complex programs including a research component
• 3+ years in a leadership role, including managing staff
• Experience managing outreach activities and strong communication and fundraising skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience working in a research-intensive environment, including with faculty
• Commitment to principles of social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. For more information on the University's commitment to these principles, please visit: https://diversity.umich.edu/

Desired Qualifications*

• Experience developing and implementing qualitative and/or quantitative research.
• Demonstrated interest in at least one area of science and technology policy, broadly defined.
• Interest in ethics, equity, and/or justice in science, technology, and environment.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Paid parental leave

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.