Overview

Princeton University seeks a founding executive director for the New Jersey AI Hub, a new entity jointly established by Princeton University, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Microsoft, and CoreWeave. Through partnership across academia, industry, and government, the NJ AI Hub’s activities will include promoting AI commercialization and accelerating start-up ventures, advancing AI innovation, engaging with New Jersey’s industry players and institutions of higher education to promote AI innovation, supporting AI education and workforce training at scale in New Jersey, and providing decision makers with thought leadership on the ethical and responsible use of AI. 

Reporting directly to the Vice President and Secretary of the University -- and working in close partnership with the Provost and a range of internal and external constituents -- the role presents a singular opportunity for an innovative and entrepreneurial leader to shape and drive the strategy for the NJ AI Hub, simultaneously advancing two of the University’s strategic priorities – fostering AI innovation and research and strengthening the regional ecosystem.

The executive director will have primary responsibility for developing and executing a strategic vision for the NJ AI Hub, working in close partnership with the founding partners. To do so, the executive director must possess the administrative, operational, and financial acumen necessary to develop the NJ AI Hub into an impactful and financially sustainable entity, working collaboratively across numerous sectors and organizations.

The ideal candidate for this role will have proven leadership skills, significant depth of experience in and knowledge about technology and AI-related fields, a deep commitment to cultivating the regional ecosystem around Princeton University, strong supervisory skills and the ability to lead and empower a team with members from multiple organizations, and an ability to drive multi-sector collaborations in support of shared aspirations.

This is a 5 year benefits eligible term position

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategy for the successful launch and growth of the NJ AI Hub
• Develop and nurture NJ AI Hub partnerships with a range of entities across multiple sectors, including academia, government, and industry
• Recruit and oversee NJ AI Hub staff and lead coordination of Microsoft and/or CoreWeave employees working in a full- or part-time capacity with the Hub
• Oversee the development and implementation of a sustainable financial model for the NJ AI Hub, and pursue opportunities to fund and advance Hub strategic goals
• Implement a communications and outreach plan to engage public, private, and non-profit sector stakeholders
• Cultivate and foster positive relationships with the NJ AI Hub board and advisory committee(s)
• Identify and monitor key performance indicators and metrics to measure the impact, success, and effectiveness of the NJ AI Hub

Qualifications

• Track record of success in a senior leadership role
• Proven experience in developing and launching new initiatives
• Strong alignment and commitment to Princeton University’s mission and strategic priorities, and to the goals for the NJ AI Hub
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with people having a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives
• Superior oral and written communication skills
• Deep knowledge of artificial intelligence and technology
• Experience working with boards and/or advisory councils
• Bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of increasing responsibility in relevant sectors or industries

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Standard Weekly Hours

Eligible for Overtime

Benefits Eligible

Probationary Period

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

Physical Capacity Exam Required

Valid Driver’s License Required

Experience Level