This position is based on Stanford’s main campus, with consideration given to the option for a hybrid work schedule (partially onsite and offsite), subject to operational needs. Interested candidates must include a resume and cover letter to be considered for this position. This is a three-year fixed-term position.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment VISA.
About Us
The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability (SDSS) strives to create a future where humans and nature thrive in concert and in perpetuity. The school is made up of a three-part structure to drive global impact: Our academic departments and programs educate students and create new knowledge across areas of research that are crucial for advancing the long-term prosperity of the planet; Institutes bridge scholarship at Stanford and beyond, bringing multiple viewpoints to bear on urgent challenges; The Sustainability Accelerator drives new policy and technology solutions through a worldwide network of partners who work with our teams to develop solutions at a global scale. The school is dedicated to creating and supporting a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, and to creating solutions that benefit all people, particularly those most affected by environmental damage and climate change.
For more information on the school, click here. The SDSS Sustainability Accelerator seeks a full-time Managing Director to lead Flagship Destination programs in the areas of Industry, Electricity and Grid Systems. Flagship Destinations are ambitious and aspirational goals that have the potential for impactful solutions on a global scale. Under the general direction of Accelerator Faculty Director Yi Cui and Executive Director Charlotte Pera, the Managing Director will lead the development and implementation of the Flagship Destination's vision, strategy, and goals. Responsibilities will include working with faculty and other internal and external leaders to define the landscape, whitespaces, and barriers in the flagship destination, overseeing the grantmaking process, and providing ongoing support, active project management, and driving scale and impact through partnerships, guidance, and resource augmentation to Accelerator-funded research teams.
The Managing Director will also develop Stanford’s connections with the global flagship ecosystem, including workshops, convenings, and developing new ways to engage the international community in productive ways. The Managing Director must have existing relationships and experience working with a wide range of stakeholders from academia, industry, government, and other organizations. We seek someone highly motivated, excited about leading change in difficult-to-solve climate challenges, and comfortable with a dynamic, start-up-like environment.
Job Purpose
Deliver impact at scale in a flagship destination through direct programs or functions of university-wide coordination in consultation with senior leadership.
Core Duties
- Lead strategic planning and analysis for complex university programs or functions with significant business, regulatory and/or technical challenges requiring subject matter expertise.
- Manage and direct the development, implementation, administration and evaluation of programs or functions. Monitor trends and recommend program or function direction.
- Act as the subject matter expert for School/unit and/or the university regarding the interpretation, implementation and compliance with policies and regulations. Recommend actions and/or resolve complex issues that span organizational boundaries.
- Represent the program or function at the university level and/or to external/internal stakeholders and constituencies.
- Direct and manage outreach and required formal partnership strategy that may include relationship development, communications, and compliance.
- Oversee, train, mentor, and supervise staff in the development and implementation of programs or functions.
- May develop and/or oversee budgets; manage finances, including monitoring, analyzing, forecasting, and reporting.
To be successful in this position, you will need:
- Bachelor’s degree and ten years of relevant experience, or combination of education and relevant experience.
- Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to influence and motivate constituencies which could span multiple organizational boundaries.
- Demonstrated excellent planning, organizational and analytical skills.
- Demonstrated ability to make sound business decisions using good business judgment and innovative and creative problem-solving.
- Demonstrated ability to manage financial, organizational and staff resources.
- Excellent interpersonal and communications skills with the ability to cultivate professional and business partnerships.
- Demonstrated network and relationships in industry, electricity and grid systems, and related ecosystems.
- Strong project planning and management skills.
- Experience in or knowledge of business process improvement methodology.
- Ability to act independently and as part of a team.
In addition, our preferred qualifications include:
- Advanced degree in science, engineering, environment, sustainability, or related discipline and ten years of experience leading complex organizations.
- Start-up and scale-up leadership experience is highly desirable.
How to Apply
We invite you to apply for this position by clicking on the “Apply for Job” button.
Why Stanford is for You
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
- Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or course auditing. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
- A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
- A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
- Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
- Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
