Careers @ MSU

Working/Functional Title

Director of Strategic Initiatives

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Director of Strategic Initiatives advances the college’s mission through two core functions:

1. Revenue Generation – Identifying, developing, and implementing innovative revenue models such as branding and naming opportunities, advertising partnerships, intellectual property commercialization, licensing agreements, and other creative strategies within a university context.
2. Strategic Project Management – Leading and coordinating a wide range of projects throughout the year, including compliance with federal mandates, university-driven initiatives, and college-level priorities.

The ideal candidate is business-savvy, creative, and highly collaborative, with a proven ability to navigate complex environments and influence outcomes. This role requires a self-starter who is organized, an exceptional communicator, and a problem-solver who focuses on solutions rather than obstacles. This is a non-supervisory role. This position will be expected to be on site a minimum of 80% of workdays in a month.

Necessary Skills and Competencies:

• Business acumen and strategic thinking.
• Creative problem-solving and ability to overcome barriers.
• High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills.
• Self-starter with flexibility and resilience.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication.
• Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and exercise influential leadership.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Business Administration, Accounting, Management or related field; five to eight years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in financial management and analysis. Demonstrated track record of success in business development, revenue generation, and/or strategic initiatives—regardless of specific degree. Significant experience managing complex projects and leading cross-functional teams. Strong ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders in a large, decentralized organization. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills. Proficiency with project management tools and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively; or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA, Higher Education Leadership, or related field) is a plus but not required.
• Experience in higher education or nonprofit environments.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following: business model development, technology transfer, entrepreneurship, licensing, branding, sponsorship agreements, or similar.
• Project management certification (PMP, CAPM) or similar credentials.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter and resume. 

Special Instructions

Cover letter should state how experiences and interests align with the job description. Please include three professional references in your application.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends February 24, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.