Program Manager, Cit

The Opportunity

The Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative will drive the commercialization and adoption of Critical Technologies, including 5G and advanced networks, AI, blockchain, robotics, and cybersecurity by bringing together large companies and innovative Small- and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to build an ecosystem that leverages Ontario's existing critical technology assets, tools, critical technology development sites, talent, and regional capabilities. This will connect industry needs with SME solutions, integrate different critical technologies, and develop new IP.

Overview: Program Manager for the Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative, reporting to the Director, Strategic Programs, will play a pivotal role in advancing the commercialization and adoption of critical technologies in key sectors—mining, advanced manufacturing, construction, and agri-food. The initiative aims to connect Ontario's Critical Industrial Technology ecosystem with industry players, promote education and awareness among SMEs, and drive economic growth through the development and commercialization of made-in-Ontario Critical Technologies, including 5G and advanced networks, AI, blockchain, robotics, and cybersecurity.

Your Contribution:

The Program Manager is entrusted with a diverse set of responsibilities, ensuring comprehensive program management and alignment with organizational objectives.

At OCI, you will:

• Manage and implement key program components for multiple programs including partnership and proposal support. Organize the external evaluations and internal executive review meetings, ensuring an open and transparent process. Oversee program budgets; manage the day-to-day delivery and operations of the programs.
• Work collaboratively with Business Development Leads, Sector Managers, and funding partners to ensure that key criteria and metrics are defined; organize and chair meetings to ensure that partnership expectations are addressed, and program delivery executed within the appropriate framework.
• Develop workflow and program process with strategic partners to operationalize programs and strategic initiatives.
• Organize the review process, managing funding outreach and communications.
• Proactively monitor program performance and take necessary actions to address potential issues or deviations from the plan.
• Engage with strategic partners on the program portfolio and facilitate the formation of effective collaborations with government, industry, and academia.
• Interface with program funders and stakeholders; work cross-functionally across departments to assemble resources; work cooperatively and collaboratively with other OCI staff (Business Development, Finance & Operations, Marketing & Communications).
• Develop program criteria, processes, specifications, and evaluation tools.
• Program stewardship, including program monitoring and provide metrics, outcomes, and impacts for internal strategy and external reporting.
• Track developments and keep up to date on current knowledge and the latest developments in the industry-academic collaborations, commercialization and student entrepreneurship space and provides input to corporate planning as required.
• Ensure stakeholder expectations are met and exceeded in terms of quality of product and service delivered.
• Identifies potential program partners and develops opportunities to collaborate.
• Identifies, develops, and manages outcomes and works with the Marketing & Communications team to develop success stories.
• Maintaining and developing program modules within the on-line application portal, AccessOCI.
• Make Program recommendations to Program Leads and respective Program Directors Support other Programs as required.
• Ensures all related administrative tasks are managed in a timely basis
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Minimum of 5-7 years of related experience, in the development and delivery of programs coupled with a university degree.
• Relevant experience in information and communications technologies, cleantech or advanced manufacturing is preferred.
• Familiar with the language and terminology of industry and academia, entrepreneurship, early-stage commercialization, and demonstration programs.
• Superior project and time management skills, including planning and executing projects to accomplish goals within constraints such as time, budget, and quality standards.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with internal and external teams.
• Proficiency with databases, web searches, with ability to learn new software applications.
• Highly developed, interpretive, and analytical skills in MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Video conferencing.
• Experience with and keen interest and passion in Ontario's industry-academic collaborations, proficient in contracts and intellectual property matter.

Internal Contacts/External Contacts

• OCI staff at all levels
• Industry (from the CEO to the shop floor)
• Student entrepreneurs
• Academic researchers, students, university research administrative staff
• University/college/hospital/government administration
• Government (at all levels, federal, provincial, and municipal)

Working Conditions

• Standard office hours, although occasionally there will be participation required in non-office hour events such as networking events, workshops, etc.
• Travel 10% of the time within Ontario.

OCI is committed to creating a diverse and equitable environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. OCI welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.