Manager - Project Performance Excellence

Aspire is the business development arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), at the heart of the innovation ecosystem of Abu Dhabi. Program Performance Excellence (PPE) is a new unit that supports the delivery of R&D projects by serving as an interface between business developers, clients and researchers. As a horizontal unit, PPE transcends the traditional boundaries of functions, disciplines and seniority levels to provide a client-centric umbrella for ideas and projects on their journey within Aspire and sister organisations. PPE is looking for former science- and engineering- trained individuals looking to have an impact beyond research. Our founding managers have PhDs in fields relevant to the ATRC Priority Sectors, and diverse post-research professional experience within government and industry organizations, from operations to strategy. "Your success is our success" is our mindset, and always striving for excellence is in our DNA.

As a successful candidate, you will play a pivotal role in driving technology maturation in the innovation ecosystem of Abu Dhabi. At multiple points in the technology development lifecycle and during client engagement, you will enable the successful adoption of brand new, UAE-native technology by clients from all over the world.

Key responsibilities:

• Support technical teams in client-focused technology development, primarily between TRL3 and TRL6.
• Provide guidance on the development and implementation of acceptance testing processes.
• Streamline communication and ensure alignment of objectives between technical teams, business development teams and venture-building teams.
• Provide expertise and guidance in developing a vision of the product, including but not limited to key features needed for competitiveness.
• Provide expertise and guidance in defining phases of technology and development to maximise chances of technology adoption.
• Ensure successful milestone delivery and milestone client sign-off.
• Ensure alignment between client expectations, contractual obligations, quality standards (where applicable), ATRC guidelines and ATRC strategic priorities with respect to a project portfolio.
• Take lead in (desk) research, analysis, reporting and communication tasks, as necessary.
• Contribute to development of road maps and strategies for the innovation ecosystem.
  
  

• A PhD in an ATRC priority sector with 5+ years of professional experience in an R&D ecosystem.
• Private sector experience, and a client-centric mindset.
• Experience in international research collaborations.
• Demonstrated success in developing system-level R&D processes.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate at all levels and to build professional relationships.
• Ability to maintain and develop a collaborative and productive working environment.
• Ability and mindset to coach junior team members, and to provide support and guidance to individuals and teams alike.
• Ability to operate under uncertainties characteristic of the R&D environment.
  
  

• Interdisciplinary background or experience from more than one industry.
• Knowledge of the following methodologies: Lean Start-up, Six Sigma, Agile, Stage-Gate.
• Track record of delivery of R&D solutions in client environment.
• Track record of client engagement leading to direct impact on client experience.
• Experience with government stakeholders.
• Project management, auditing, quality assurance, quality control or related certification.
• Technology transfer or Intellectual Property training.
  
  

• A complete application consists of the candidate’s CV, Cover Letter, and details of one person able to provide a professional reference. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• More than 1 position is available.