Business Development Advisor - Southern Alberta

About the role

As a Business Development Advisor at Mitacs, you will play a role in fostering partnerships between academia and industry within Southern Alberta. Your primary focus will be on promoting innovation and research collaboration by connecting businesses with academic institutions. This position requires a strategic thinker who can identify opportunities for growth and facilitate the development of impactful projects. You will work closely with stakeholders to ensure that Mitacs programs align with the needs of the local economy and contribute to the advancement of research and development initiatives.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies to promote Mitacs programs and initiatives.
• Identify potential industry partners and assess their needs to create tailored research collaborations that drive innovation.
• Conduct outreach activities, including presentations and workshops, to raise awareness about Mitacs offerings and the benefits of research partnerships.
• Collaborate with internal teams to design and implement strategies that enhance the visibility and impact of Mitacs programs in Southern Alberta.
• Analyze market trends and industry demands to inform the development of new programs and services that meet the evolving needs of businesses.
• Support the application process for funding and grants by providing guidance to businesses and researchers on project proposals.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of ongoing projects, ensuring that they align with Mitacs objectives and deliver measurable outcomes.
• Act as a liaison between researchers and industry partners, facilitating communication and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.
• Organize networking events and forums to connect businesses with academic experts, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders to communicate the impact of Mitacs programs and the success stories of partnerships.
• Stay informed about developments in the research and innovation landscape, both locally and nationally, to position Mitacs as a leader in the field.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in business development and research collaboration.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in business, science, engineering, or a related field; a master's degree is an asset.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in business development, partnership management, or a related role, preferably in an academic or research environment.
• Strong understanding of the innovation ecosystem in Southern Alberta, including key industries and research institutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform strategic decision-making.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with CRM software or project management tools.
• A self-starter with a proactive approach to problem-solving and a passion for fostering innovation.
• Willingness to travel within Southern Alberta as needed to meet with partners and attend events.

Nice to have

• Experience working in a research or academic setting, particularly in a business development capacity.
• Familiarity with funding programs and grant application processes related to research and innovation.
• Established network of contacts within the Southern Alberta business community and academic institutions.
• Knowledge of intellectual property issues and commercialization strategies in research.
• Bilingualism in English and French is an asset.

Skills & tools

• Strong negotiation and persuasion skills to effectively advocate for Mitacs programs.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while also being able to work independently.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools and techniques to assess project outcomes and impact.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Calgary, Alberta, and may require occasional travel within the region.
• The salary for this role will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Interested applicants can apply through the Mitacs career portal at [Mitacs Careers](https://mitacs.bamboohr.com/careers/1784).

META

Company: Mitacs

Title: Business Development Advisor - Southern Alberta

Listed

location: Calgary, Alberta

Job type: Full-time