Programs Director, Innovation

Company Overview

NobleReach Foundation is a civic leadership platform committed to rekindling a spirit of national service across all career stages. We believe the greatest challenges facing America demand technology, science, and business leaders fluent in government, industry, and academia—leaders who belong across sectors, not confined to one. We’re a hub where current and aspiring leaders can connect to opportunities that can meet their ambition for personal success and their passion to impact the world through public service.

Job Overview

The Programs Director, Innovation leads the operational execution of NobleReach's Innovation programs, bridging strategic vision with tactical implementation. This role manages a team of innovation professionals while working closely with Senior Commercialization Advisors (SCAs) to drive technology commercialization initiatives, including ecosystem infrastructure partnerships, though program structure and execution success. The Director serves as a key liaison between program partners, performers, and internal stakeholders to ensure effective program delivery and impact.

Responsibilities

• Drive operational execution of innovation programs, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives
• Lead and mentor innovation team members, providing guidance on program execution and professional development
• Develop and implement processes for evaluating program effectiveness and impact
• Manage resource allocation across multiple programs and initiatives
• Build and maintain strong relationships with program partners, founders, and stakeholders
• Lead communication with program stakeholders
• Lead business reviews and stakeholder workshops to drive program success
• Oversee due diligence processes for technology evaluation and commercialization potential
• Develop and implement repeatable playbooks, templates and other resources
• Guide the development of commercialization models and supporting resources to scale our practice
• Monitor and report on commercialization progress and metrics
• Establish and maintain program management best practices
• Develop and implement standardized processes for program execution and monitoring
• Create and maintain program documentation and reporting

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred in a business, engineering or related field
• 7+ years of experience in technology commercialization, program management, or related field
• Demonstrated success in managing complex programs and stakeholder relationships at multiple levels, including budgeting, resource management and relationships management.
• Strong understanding of technology commercialization, startup and innovation processes
• Experience in a people-focused role; proven ability to develop stakeholder relationships and manage expectations
• Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, entrepreneurial environment; ability to exercise flexibility and good judgment in complex situations
• Appetite for curiosity and desire to learn
• Must have an entrepreneurial mindset with a strong desire to have an impact on society