Executive Director, Technology and Innovation in Richmond, Virginia at Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Executive Director of the Technology and Innovation Center provides strategic leadership, vision, and operational oversight for the University’s technology and innovation initiatives. This position is responsible for advancing innovation, digital transformation, emerging technologies, workforce development, and collaborative partnerships that support academic excellence, research, entrepreneurship, and student success. The Executive Director fosters an innovative ecosystem that connects faculty, students, industry, and community stakeholders while aligning technology initiatives with the University’s strategic priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Technology and Innovation Center aligned with the University’s mission and goals.
• Lead initiatives focused on innovation, digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.
• Identify opportunities to expand technology-driven learning, research, and workforce development programs.
• Oversee daily operations, programming, and administrative functions of the Center.
• Build and maintain partnerships with corporations, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Pursue grants, sponsorships, and external funding opportunities to support innovation initiatives.
• Represent the University at conferences, industry events, and community engagements.
• Support technology integration across academic and operational areas.
• Promote workforce readiness through certifications, technology training, internships, and innovation-focused programming.
• Monitor trends in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital learning, and emerging technologies.
• Foster student innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied learning opportunities.
• Promote equitable access to technology resources and innovation opportunities.
• Develop and manage the Center’s budget and operational resources.
• Oversee purchasing, technology inventory, contracts, and vendor relationships.
• Prepare reports, assessments, and strategic updates for University leadership.
• Supervise professional staff, student workers, interns, and program coordinators.
• Establish performance expectations and support staff development and training.
• Ensure compliance with University policies, technology standards, grant requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Maintain data security, confidentiality, and ethical technology practices.

Education

• Master’s degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, Higher Education, Innovation Management, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in technology, innovation, higher education, or program administration.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.