Wichita State University has a long tradition of innovation and entrepreneurship that spurs the economy and serves the needs of the local community. This is the place where anything is possible! Where collaboration and innovative ideas shape the future, and entrepreneurship is in our bones.

The Great Plains Mission Acceleration Center (MAC) at FirePoint is hiring an Engagement and Business Development Manager. The position will work with mission partners from across the Department of Defense (DoD) to connect emerging technologies from small business and academia with critical mission needs. The position will include identifying and interfacing with DoD and Industry representatives and developing strategies for identifying new project opportunities with our DoD customers. This candidate will be responsible for developing the messaging and branding of The Great Plains MAC by overseeing and facilitating collaborations with program partners. They will provide leadership and strategic direction for the planning, development and implementation of marketing, communications, and digital content creation, including development of strategies to achieve business goals.

Summary:

Manages, oversees, and facilitates collaborations with program partners. Provides leadership and strategic direction for the planning, development and implementation of marketing, communications and digital content creation, including development of strategies to achieve business goals.

Essential Functions:

• Provides leadership and strategic planning to management within areas of responsibility.
• Oversees the development and continuous improvement of services, policies, processes, and programs. Creates and manages outcome analytics.
• Directs the daily operations of staff and/or team leads in the design and implementation of communication content and marketing materials including major projects, campaigns, events and services.
• Provides leadership in the development of branding, communications messaging and marketing design materials in print, audio, and/or online publications. Oversees and ensures compliance with visual standards and ensures messaging aligns with goals and objectives.
• Provides external communication for press, media and public relations.
• Builds communities through events and services that strengthen relationships with internal and external partners.
• Facilitates interactions with external vendors, customers, and internal partners to comprehend and develop business case and proposal responses.
• Coordinates with, and provides reports and updates to, internal and external resources and stakeholders.
• Facilitates customer engagement and supports strategic growth initiatives for the areas of responsibility.
• Analyzes data to determine achievement with assigned goals and compliance with rules and regulations.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Organized, with attention to details.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with key decision makers.
• Self-starter with ability to work independently.
• Strong verbal and communication skills.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or related field.
• Six (6) years of related experience, with two (2) years if experience in a leadership role.

Preferred Experience

• Ten (10) years of experience in related field and military background preferred.
• Ability to obtain security clearance.