Job Description

Innovation Saskatchewan is the innovation agency for the Government of Saskatchewan. We fuel economic growth by empowering innovators and supporting Saskatchewan's vibrant tech sector and research community. Our robust portfolio of grant programs, tax incentives, research funding and the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology Parks help accelerate technologies and advance research. Innovation Saskatchewan 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 Vice President, Academic Research Investments & Life Sciences Innovation (ARILSI), the Executive Director, Research Investments & Policy plays a pivotal role in driving initiatives that strengthen Saskatchewan's global reputation as a leader in research and innovation. This position is responsible for advancing the priorities in Saskatchewan's Research Strategy, identifying new opportunities, trends and existing gaps in the research landscape, evaluating and reporting on provincial investments in academic research and infrastructure and supporting development of the life sciences sector.


As a senior leader, this position is highly influential in shaping and implementing the agency's mandate and economic development goals, including maintaining and advancing working relationships with the province's post-secondary institutions, funded Research Partners and industry stakeholders.


The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of Canada and Saskatchewan's research ecosystem and commercialization processes, with a particular focus on growth opportunities in the life sciences sector. They must also be a strategic, collaborative and outcomes-driven leader who excels at building relationships, developing impactful strategies and policies and navigating complex stakeholder environments.


If you're driven by curiosity, powered by purpose and ready to help shape the future of research and innovation in Saskatchewan, we'd love to hear from you!

Primary Responsibilities

Duties include but are not limited to:

Advancing the province's life sciences sector through policy, programming and partnerships to advance Saskatchewan's economic development goals aligned with the Government of Saskatchewan's Growth Plan and Research Strategy. Providing strategic and operational leadership for the agency's Innovation & Science Fund program and funded Research Partners Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canadian Light Source (CLS), Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF) and Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovation (Fedoruk Centre). Developing an action plan to support the adoption of emerging technologies in the province including but not limited to quantum and artificial intelligence. Building productive, outcome-oriented relationships across Saskatchewan's innovation ecosystem and providing strategic guidance and leadership to industry associations, post-secondary institutions, government bodies, economic development agencies and funders. Contributing to planning and implementing cross-agency and ministry initiatives to support strategic research and innovation priorities. Preparing annual planning and budget documents with clear goals and objectives aligned with Innovation Saskatchewan's strategic priorities. Leading federal engagement efforts to advocate for Saskatchewan's priorities that align with government objectives. Managing the Director, Research Programs and Senior Policy Analyst and reporting department information to the VP, ARILSI and Senior Leadership Committee. Pursuing opportunities to bring startups, scale ups, research commercialization and related activities to the Regina and Saskatoon Research and Technology Parks. Other duties as assigned.

What We Want from You

7 or more years of experience in a leadership role. Master's degree in administration, business or economics, or equivalent education and experience in life sciences field is highly valued. Extensive knowledge of the Canadian research and commercialization landscape, particularly in life sciences, and an understanding of government priorities related to economic development, research and innovation. Ability to interpret, analyze and translate research and innovation trends into actionable programs, strategies and policy initiatives Experience with decision-making tools and legislative, regulatory and policy development tools and processes. Strong business acumen, with the ability to identify and evaluate economic development opportunities within the research and innovation ecosystem. Skilled in developing and executing corporate strategy that aligns with broader agency and provincial objectives. Consistently acts with the highest degree of integrity and business ethics, exercises sound judgement and is comfortable with ambiguity and decision-making. Effective team builder and coach with a history of motivating high-performing teams, driving success and growing leadership capacity. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly. Demonstrated ability to create results by building relationships with diverse stakeholders in the research community and across all levels of government. Skilled in budget planning, strategic forecasting and performance measurement frameworks for research initiatives. Knowledge of best practices in governance and accountability for public sector investments in research and innovation. History of successfully achieving results within a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Clear passion for Saskatchewan's growing research community.

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.

How to Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter to

careers@innovationsask.ca

by July 25, 2025.