Research Partnership Officer

at  SAIT

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. ARIS is on the leading edge of novel technology development. As one of Canada’s top applied-research colleges, SAIT has 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and full-time research staff who are solely dedicated to providing the services organizations need to take their products from concept to prototype.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 
  
  
  
• A post-secondary diploma or degree combined with at least 3 years of experience in research partnership development, stakeholder engagement, research development, or client relationship management.

• Proven experience in identifying and supporting collaborative research opportunities and facilitating partnership initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to engage in consultative discussions, proposal development, and alignment of research goals with partner needs.
• Experience in managing research-related agreements, contracts, or funding applications.
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Proficiency with CRM systems.
• Experience working in a post-secondary or research-intensive environment is considered an asset.
• Familiarity with grant funding processes and agencies (e.g., NSERC, CFI, NRCAN, Mitacs/CICAN) is preferred.
• Experience using Salesforce or similar CRM platforms is considered an asset.
• A post-secondary degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, business, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Professional certification in partnership development, project management, or a related area is an asset.
• 5 years of experience in research partnership development, stakeholder engagement, or client relationship management is preferred.

SKILLS REQUIRED

• 
  
  
  
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear, compelling proposals and reports

• Excellent organizational and time management abilities to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex partnership challenges
• Collaborative team player with a focus on building and maintaining strong, productive relationships
• Ability to navigate workflows, prioritize tasks, and balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

REQUIREMENTS

• 
  
  
  
• Attend to in person and online meetings

• Domestic or international travel to meet with partners, collaborators, or stakeholders at their locations
• The position does not involve working in labs or handling equipment
  Job classification: P2083 - Business Development Manager
  Salary range: $95,000 - $115,000
  Paid Leave: 4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year
  Hours Per Week: 37.5
  Posting closing date: February 5, 2025

ABOUT SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.
Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.
Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.
At SAIT, we understand that experience comes in many forms. We’re dedicated to adding diverse perspectives to SAIT - so if your experience is close to what we’re looking for, please consider applying.
SAIT is committed to supporting persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. We will work with applicants to provide accommodations upon request to the Talent Advisor.

• 
  
  
  
• Market Analysis, Proposal Development and Contract Management

• Conduct market analysis to identify emerging research opportunities and areas of collaboration
• Engage with industry, community partners, and research networks to identify emerging trends and needs within the applied research ecosystem
• Identify relevant funding programs that align with institutional research priorities
• Collaborate with internal research teams to develop tailored proposals that address partner needs, including scope of work, methodology, and resource requirements
• Ensure proposals reflect SAIT’s commitment to applied research excellence and innovation
• Act as a contract reviewer to assess research agreements, funding contracts, and partnership documents, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and strategic goals. Collaborate with the legal team for complex or high-risk agreements
• Partner Relationship Management
• Identify collaborative opportunities with industry, educational institutions, communities, and other research organizations
• Build, nurture, and maintain strong, long-term relationships with research partners and clients
• Understand partner goals and challenges to identify opportunities for impactful research collaborations
• Support ongoing engagement and communication with partners to ensure alignment, resolve challenges, and enhance satisfaction
• Oversee the day-to-day management of partner portfolios, including proactive relationship development and facilitation of research opportunities
• Proactively identify and cultivate meaningful collaborations by engaging with potential partners through networking, relationship building conversations, and active participation in industry, government, and funding agency conferences and events
• Strategic Collaboration, Development and coordination
• Develop and implement strategic approaches to strengthen partnerships and expand applied research initiatives
• Provide feedback on processes and workflows to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of research collaboration efforts
• Proactively monitor research activities at other institutions to identify and facilitate collaborative opportunities
• Establish and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders, including research administrators and operational teams, to ensure alignment and support for research initiatives
• Support project planning and identifying opportunities for effective resource allocation
• Regularly report on partnership and collaboration activities, progress, and key metrics to senior leadership
• Support the continuous improvement of partnership processes and documentation
• Manage CRM or other systems to track and report on partnership activities