Minimum Requirements
Fully Professor or Associate Professor of a recognzied University;
Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills, with the abilty to build effective partnerships and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders;
Understanding organization development skills entrepreneurial acumen and business process re-enginnering competencies;
Ability to develop and communicate a clear vision for Research, Innovation and advancement that aligns with the institution's purpose, vision, value and strategic priorities;
Capacity for innovative thinking and proplem-solving with a focus on fostering creativity, entrepreneurship and continous improvement within the University;
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex ideas, influence stakeholders, and represent the institution effectively to internal and external audiences;
Proven ability to recruit, develop, and motivate high-performing teams, and to foster a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and excellence within the Research, Innovation and Advancement departments
Experience in strategic planning, goal setting, and project management, with a track record of successfully implementing initiatives that advance institutional priorities;
Proficiency in data analysis and evidence-based decision-making, with the ability to use data to assess performance, identify trends, and inform strategic actions;
High ethical standards and integrity, with a commitment to upholding integrity, ethical conduct, and the mission of the institution;
Ability to effectively manage crises and navigate challenging situations with composure, decisiveness, and integrity;
Be a registred member of a professional association;
At least 10 years of experience in Senior University management positions;
Should have published extenssively in recognized referred journals;
Demonstrated evidence of innovative and creataive leadership in areas of Research, Innovation and Outreach;
Demonstrate evidence of current strategic partnerships and networks
Provide evidence of leadership reserch, network and ability to attract funds to the University;
Should have a good understanding of legal framework, policies and regulations governing University education in Kenya;
Demonstrated leadership experience in financial management and budget oversight, preferably within a complex academic instituation or smilar organization;
Job Responsibilities
Advocate for policies and investments that support research, innovation, and philanthropy at the local, national, and international levels, positioning the University as a leader in these areas.
Collaborate with senior leadership, academic departments, and external partners to align research, innovation, and fundraising activities with the University's mission, vision, purpose, core values, and strategic priorities.
Contribute to the development and implementation of institutional strategic plans, goals, and initiatives, particularly in areas related to research, innovation, and advancement.
Cultivate relationships with alumni, donors, foundations, corporations, and other stakeholders to engage them in the University's mission and vision.
Develop and implement comprehensive advancement strategies, including donor cultivation, stewardship, and recognition programs, to enhance philanthropic revenue and support.
Develop and maintain research infrastructure, facilities, and resources to support the needs of faculty, researchers, and students engaged in research activities across diverse disciplines.
Ensure compliance with ethical standards, research regulations, and institutional policies related to research integrity, human subjects' protection, animal welfare, and responsible conduct of research.
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, grant agreements, and ethical standards governing research, fundraising, and advancement activities, and implement measures to address any issues or concerns.
Establish and nurture relationships with industry partners, startups, investors, and government agencies to facilitate technology transfer, licensing agreements, and industry collaborations.
Forge collaborations and partnerships with industry, government agencies, non for profit organizations, and international institutions to advance research, innovation, and development goals.
Foster a culture of excellence, integrity, and collaboration in research across all disciplines, promoting interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships.
Identify emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges in research funding, innovation ecosystems and recommend strategic responses and investments.
Lead fundraising and development efforts to secure philanthropic support, grants, sponsorships, and other sources of funding to advance the University's research, innovation, and academic programs.
Oversee intellectual property management processes, including patenting, licensing, and technology transfer agreements. Protect and maximize the value of intellectual property assets generated through research and innovation activities.
Prepare regular reports, updates, and presentations for the University Council, senior leadership, and other stakeholders on research, innovation, fundraising, and development activities, outcomes, and impact.
Promote innovation and entrepreneurship within the University community, facilitating the translation of research discoveries into commercial products, services, and startups.
Promote technology transfer and commercialization of research discoveries and innovations through patents, licenses, start-up ventures, and industry partnerships.
Provide strategic leadership and vision for the University's research activities, guiding the development and implementation of research policies, initiatives, and programs.
Provide support and resources for faculty, students, and staff interested in pursuing entrepreneurial activities, including mentorship, training programs, and access to incubators and accelerators.
Represent the University in external forums and conferences, related to research, innovation, fundraising, and advancement, building the institution's reputation and influence.
Support faculty, researchers, and graduate students in identifying funding opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and disseminating research findings through publications and presentations.