How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
About GLEAM: The Great Lakes Energy Accelerator at Michigan (GLEAM) is a new, multidisciplinary initiative at the University of Michigan dedicated to accelerating innovation in future energy systems through the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR). Through deep collaboration with external partners, we bridge the gap between world-class research and real-world impact, delivering tangible benefits for Michigan communities and shaping national and global progress.
About IES: The Institute for Energy Solutions (IES) is committed to achieving positive change to national and global energy systems. Our IES mission is to pursue energy science and technologies to enable, accelerate, and inform the transition to an equitable, resilient, clean, affordable, and sustainable energy future. We partner with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to develop and maximize the impact of UM energy expertise and science and technology outcomes. We are supported by the College of Engineering and OVPR. We are looking for an individual who shares our IES goals and wants to help lead the IES forward.
Role Overview: The GLEAM and Institute for Energy Solutions Managing Director is a dynamic leader with demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, financial management, operations, and stakeholder engagement. This position is structured to split responsibility equally between GLEAM and IES, bringing an energetic, impact-oriented approach to shaping and advancing both GLEAM and IES visions. The Managing Director champions operational excellence and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation. Working closely with the GLEAM Faculty Director and IES Institute Director, this position co-develops and implements institute-wide strategies, maintains a holistic view across all projects, and ensures alignment with the mission and values of GLEAM and IES. The role requires a deep understanding of how research, translational activities, and external partnerships intersect and reinforce each other throughout GLEAM and IES programs. This individual advises leadership on strengthening programs, identifying gaps, and guiding resource allocation and decision-making to support strategic priorities.
Responsibilities*
- Strategic Leadership
- Collaborate with the Faculty Director to shape, articulate, and execute GLEAM and IES strategic visions
- Guide cross-campus and cross-sector partnerships, ensuring alignment with goals and stakeholder interests
- Advise leadership on emerging opportunities, gaps, and risks in the energy landscape
- Develop and track key performance indicators (KPI) for programmatic and outreach impact
- Operational Management
- Oversee day-to-day business operations of GLEAM and IES
- Manage annual budgets, resource allocation, and compliance with University and sponsor requirements in coordination with the OVPR Business Operations group.
- Program Development & Oversight
- Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of GLEAM/IES workshops and programs
- Ensure effective delivery of workshops, seed-funding initiatives, and public-facing programming
- External Partnership & Outreach
- Represent GLEAM/IES internally within the University and externally with strategic partners, industry collaborators
- Foster robust partnerships with industry, government, foundations, and local communities to drive impact and secure funding streams
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
3 to 5 years of progressively responsible experience in research, nonprofit, industry, or similar settings
Proven track record of strategic planning, financial management, effective team coordination, and operational execution
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with experience engaging diverse stakeholders
Ability to manage complex, multidisciplinary initiatives and adapt to evolving priorities
Desired Qualifications*
Knowledge of the energy landscape
Experience engaging with leadership, preferably in energy, sustainability, or technology sectors
PhD or advanced degree, and/or experience working with research teams
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.