Senior Manager, Ecosystem Development
Regina, SK | Permanent, Full time
Our Agency
Innovation Saskatchewan is the innovation agency for the Government of Saskatchewan. The agency fuels economic growth by empowering innovators and supporting Saskatchewan’s vibrant tech sector and research community. Innovation Saskatchewan’s robust portfolio of grant programs, tax incentives, research funding and Innovation Place research and technology parks helps accelerate technologies and advance research. The agency works closely with industry, academia and other stakeholders to provide strong foundations that allow the province’s ecosystem to thrive and make Saskatchewan a world leader in innovation.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Executive Director, Innovation Investments & Programs, the Senior Manager, Ecosystem Development proactively engages with stakeholders to create valuable partnerships, programs and collaborative initiatives. This includes identifying emerging needs within the tech sector and supporting initiatives related to labour market development, equity, diversity & inclusion and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the role involves leading the successful delivery, evaluation, promotion and reporting of related partnership and funding opportunities.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of Saskatchewan’s research community and tech sector, including its key players, emerging trends and unique opportunities. They will use this knowledge to inform strategic decision-making, build meaningful partnerships and advance initiatives that strengthen the province’s ecosystem.
If you’re passionate about driving growth in Saskatchewan’s tech sector and have a knack for building relationships that deliver exceptional outcomes, we would love to hear from you!
Primary Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to the following:
- Fostering relationships within Saskatchewan’s innovation ecosystem including tech companies, incubators, educational institutions, government bodies, economic development agencies and industry associations.
- Actively collaborating with key stakeholders to identify and pursue growth opportunities for the tech sector.
- Leading the delivery and support of programs aligned with Innovation Saskatchewan’s strategic initiatives and government priorities.
- Coordinating the implementation of programs by developing performance metrics, managing budgets, evaluating return on investment, assessing risks and driving continuous improvement.
- Staying aware of developments in other jurisdictions that could impact Saskatchewan’s competitiveness.
- Offering guidance to tech startups through pathfinding support.
- Providing ongoing monitoring of trends, gaps & opportunities and determining the most effective methods of leveraging the agency’s tools (e.g., programs, research parks) for the benefit of key stakeholders.
- Highlighting the value of Innovation Place research and technology parks to support ecosystem growth and connect potential tenants with business development teams.
- Contributing to the implementation of Innovation Saskatchewan’s strategy, sharing its mission, values and program offerings.
- Representing Innovation Saskatchewan at relevant community events and championing Saskatchewan’s tech and innovation ecosystem.
- Providing constructive leadership on a daily basis and in times of change.
- Promoting collaboration, positive relations and service excellence between teams and departments to achieve agency goals.
- Additional duties as assigned.
What We Want from You
Bachelor’s degree in business administration or commerce preferred.
- 5 to 10 years of experience in economic development preferred.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Deep understanding of and passion for Saskatchewan’s research community and tech sector.
- Strong talent for forging strategic partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to execute corporate strategies and objectives effectively.
- Initiative-driven and self-motivated attitude.
- Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to empower employees and foster collaborative environments.
- Exceptional collaboration and communication skills to lead and contribute to working groups, discuss issues and gain support from stakeholders.
- Unwavering integrity, ethical decision-making and comfort with ambiguity.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, thriving in a dynamic environment.
- Dedication to fostering a flexible and supportive work environment.
- Proficiency in addressing and solving complex challenges.
- Intermediate proficiency in MS Office software.
What We Offer
We offer more than a position. We provide a pathway to growth and well-being.
- Comprehensive suite of benefits, including extended health, dental and vision care as well as comprehensive life and protection insurance.
- Public Employees Pension Plan with generous employer contribution.
- Work-life balance with paid Scheduled Days Off each year, alongside a starting vacation entitlement of three weeks (with acknowledgment of prior service within the Saskatchewan Government or universities).
- Added office amenities and perks like free parking and gym access at the Innovation Place research and technology parks.
How to Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter to careers@innovationsask.ca by May 2, 2025.
