"Bezos Center Operations & Partnerships Manager"

Essential Job Duties:

The Bezos Center Operations Manager will collaborate with faculty, researchers, and industry partners to ensure the smooth operation of the Center's programs while fostering partnerships that drive innovation in sustainable protein technologies. This role supports the Center's leadership team in implementing operational strategies, managing resources, and optimizing workflows to enhance productivity and collaboration. The Operations Manager will also support the Center's research, workforce development, and capacity-building activities, develop and maintain relationships with partners, and facilitate technology transfer.

Key Responsibilities fall within the following functional areas:

Strategic Planning & Operational Leadership:

• Devise and implement short- and long-term operational strategies and processes in collaboration with the Director.
• Ensure operational efficiency, compliance, and risk management.
• Develop and refine workflows to support program growth and sustainability.

Program & Partnership Management:

• Implement and oversee the Center's research, workforce development, and outreach programs.
• Manage partnerships and stakeholder consortia, identifying opportunities for collaboration with academic, industry, non-profit, and government partners.
• Support technology transfer initiatives and facilitate partnerships that advance sustainable protein innovation.
• Manage projects that contribute to the growth and expansion of the Center's initiatives.

Staff Leadership & Development:

• Manage Center staff, including hiring, onboarding, performance evaluations, and professional development.
• Provide guidance to staff on project execution and program priorities.
• Foster a collaborative work environment by supporting team development, engagement, and growth.

Market Research & Strategic Recommendations:

• Conduct market research on emerging trends in sustainable protein technologies.
• Provide strategic recommendations to inform the Center's work agenda, program development, and partnership strategy.
• Offer subject matter expertise when relevant to initiatives and collaborations.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Support annual reporting requirements by collecting, organizing, and drafting information for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain documentation for operational processes, programs, and partnerships.

This role offers the opportunity to shape the operations of a leading Center advancing sustainable protein technologies. If you are a highly organized, strategic, and collaborative professional with experience managing programs, partnerships, and staff in a research or innovation environment we encourage you to apply.

Other Work/Responsibilities:

In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties, such as:

• Represent the Center at internal and external events to build awareness and foster collaborations.
• Deputize for the Director in their absence if required.

These offer an opportunity to build on your skills, explore new areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the department's operations.

Minimum Experience/Education:

• Master's degree in a relevant major in Engineering, Agriculture, Life/Food Science, Biomanufacturing/Biotech or a related field, or Bachelor's degree and two years of general research experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Required Qualifications:

• Industry work experience in the food, agriculture, life sciences, biomanufacturing, or sustainability sectors.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across complex academic and industry environments.
• Strong strategic thinking to align operational goals with organizational priorities and emerging trends.
• Skilled at managing multiple projects and meeting critical deadlines efficiently.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with executives, faculty, staff, students, and external partners.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD in a relevant major in Engineering, Agriculture, Food/Life Science, or Biomanufacturing/Biotech.
• 5 years of leadership experience in R&D, operations, or scientific partnerships role(s) in a research and innovation-driven environment.
• Experience with alternative protein technologies and related food systems or agricultural innovations.
• Existing professional network within the food and agriculture sectors.
• Professional experience working in academic environments.
• Degree or certificate related to business/operations management

Required License or Certification:

n/a

Location: Raleigh, NC

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