The Director, Strategic Partnerships is responsible for initiating, developing, and executing strategies and processes to promote OCI’s growth and sustainability.This role is a critical position at OCI and the successful candidate will act in coordination with the Executive Team to define short- and long-term strategies and work with internal and external stakeholders to execute on the strategies essential for the development of OCI. This role reports directly to the, Assistant Vice President, Corporate Development, Partnerships and International.

The Ontario

Centre of Innovation (OCI) is the province’s leading innovation engine, bringing together industry, academia, government, and investors to accelerate commercialization and scale Ontario-made technologies. From AI and quantum to life sciences, cleantech, and advanced manufacturing, OCI powers the programs and partnerships helping Ontario companies grow, compete globally, and build the future, right here. Lead staff, direct and indirect, by providing guidance and coaching, providing a clear sense of purpose and direction, and creating through his/her leadership a positive and stimulating work setting.

Actively participating in relevant business associations, technical committees, and professional organizations to promote and grow OCI’s network. committees of volunteer groups, advisory or review committees) or serving on corporate committees (e.g., Research, Commercialization, and /or Talent Committees), making proposal presentations, conducting project specific and business-case reviews, etc.). including current knowledge of sector specific industry news, regulations, and contacts. Strengthen and manage OCI’s strategic relationships with but not limited to domestic and international organizations, academic institutions, Regional Innovation Centres (RICs), Angel and VC investment communities and economic development entities. Direct the development of viable opportunities in partnership with key networks,



negotiate partnerships and agreements and generate outcomes aligned with the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) strategic and operating plans.

In conjunction with the Executive Team, the Director is accountable for developing new opportunities, agreements, and partnerships and other new project initiatives to increase OCI’s reach and create additional opportunities. Engage strategically with the public and private sectors and secure traditional as well as non-traditional industry-based partnerships to improve the impact, integration, and effectiveness of OCI’s investments. Engage with developing networks to facilitate the formation of effective partnerships between industry, research, the investment community, and government.

Measure the performance of each partnered project and programs to quantify outcomes. Actively participate in relevant business associations, committees, and professional organizations to promote and grow OCI’s network. Significant work experience in building partnerships at the government, corporate, and non-profit stakeholders is highly desired, however, some experience may be drawn from advisory positions in investment, legal or consulting firms.

Experience in dealing with public sector funding along with federal and provincial contacts and network. Strong strategic thinking to develop creative and effective strategies to achieve the organization’s strategic partnership objectives. Robust skills in strategic and quantitative analysis, project management, leadership, negotiation, and oral and written communication are essential.

Familiar with the “language” and terminology of industry, finance, government, and the academic community. Significant knowledge of Government agencies, Incubators, Accelerators, and their programs within Ontario Communities. Standard office environment Standard office hours Travel 20 – 40% of the time within Ontario.

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. #

📌 Director of Public School Partnerships (Toronto)
🏢 Ontario Centre of Innovation
📍 Toronto