Director of Business Development

Posting date: February 18, 2026

002276SR

• Job Type: Full-time
• Location: Cambridge
• School/Unit: Harvard University Central Administration
• Department: Office of the President and Provost
• Salary Grade: 061
• Job Function: General Administration
• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Term Appointment: No
• Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

About the Harvard Office of Technology Development (OTD)

The Office of Technology Development (OTD) is part of Harvard University's Central Administration. OTD fulfills the University’s commitment to translate technologies developed in Harvard labs for the public good and to establish corporate partnerships that advance research towards commercial impact.

Job Description

Reporting to the Associate Provost and Chief Technology Development Officer, the Director of Business Development (DBD) will support OTD’s core mission to 1) commercialize technologies emerging from Harvard labs and 2) secure funding from corporate sources to advance research.

The DBD will be responsible for developing and implementing commercialization plans for technologies in the physical sciences, engineering, applied, and computer sciences. This entails assessing the commercial potential and market opportunities for new technologies and formulating strategies for their transfer to society through licensing, startup creation, or partnering with industry. The DBD will manage a portfolio of inventions in diverse fields of technology, including materials science, quantum, AI, energy, medical devices, imaging, and nanotech. S/he will draft term sheets and negotiate license and sponsored research agreements; help create startups and develop relationships with entrepreneurs and investors; support researchers on issues related to technology transfer and business development; prepare technology profiles reflecting the commercial potential of new technologies; identify potential licensees; initiate industry contacts and develop strong relationships with potential commercialization partners; and facilitate interactions among faculty and industry scientists, patent counsel, research sponsors and university administration.

Harvard University has retained Park Square Executive Search to conduct the search for this position. All inquiries, nominations, and applications should be sent to Bruce Rychlik, Managing Partner, or Jack Carter, Principal, of Park Square Executive Search at harvardotd@parksquare.com Please do not apply via the Harvard portal.

Qualifications

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:

An advanced scientific, computer science, or engineering degree in the physical sciences or a related discipline. Ten years of relevant experience in positions involved with corporate partnering, deal making, marketing, licensing, technology transfer, business development or business incubation in an industrial setting.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

PhD, strong scientific background, preferred. Strong preference will be given to candidates who have had business/corporate development or startup experience and the contacts that accompany those types of experiences. Experience dealing with patent and licensing law and practices and related legal agreements. Skills needed to negotiate agreements within a highly complex and demanding organization. Highly entrepreneurial.

Additional Information

Harvard University has retained Park Square Executive Search to conduct the search for this position. All inquiries, nominations, and applications can be sent to Bruce Rychlik, Managing Partner, or Jack Carter, Principal, of Park Square Executive Search at harvardotd@parksquare.com Please do not apply via the Harvard portal.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: standard work week
• Visa Sponsorship: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background screenings: Identity and Education
• Other Information: This position has a 6-month orientation and review period.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 061. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.