About the Institute: The Institute of Manufacturing and Economy (IME) at Ahmedabad University is envisioned as a premier interdisciplinary centre advancing research, policy, innovation, and industry engagement at the intersection of manufacturing, technology, sustainability, and economic development. IME aims to serve as a bridge between academia, industry, and government—driving thought leadership and actionable solutions for India’s evolving manufacturing ecosystem.
Position Summary: The Executive Director will be a builder-leader responsible for establishing IME as a nationally and internationally recognised centre of excellence. This role requires a corporate-style executive with strong strategic, financial, and operational capabilities who can build a sustainable institution with measurable impact. Reporting to the University leadership, the Executive Director will build and scale the Institute’s research portfolio, industry partnerships, policy engagement, and executive education initiatives, ensuring academic rigour alongside real-world impact.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Vision
- Define and execute a 5–10-year strategic roadmap aligned with the University’s mission.
- Position IME as a leading voice in manufacturing innovation, industrial policy, and economic transformation.
- Build around emerging opportunities in manufacturing in India, e.g., Industry 4.0, sustainability, supply chains, industrial policy, and digital manufacturing including automation.
Institution Building and Governance
- Establish governance structures, advisory boards, and performance frameworks.
- Support high-calibre faculty, researchers, and program leaders.
- Foster an interdisciplinary culture across engineering, management, economics, and public policy.
Industry and Policy Engagement
- Build strategic partnerships with corporations, MSMEs, industry bodies, and government agencies.
- Lead sponsored research, consulting, and collaborative innovation initiatives.
- Represent IME in national and global forums.
Research and Academic Excellence
- Promote high-impact research, publications, and policy papers.
- Develop executive education, certification programs, and industry-focused learning modules.
- Enable translational research and commercialisation pathways.
Financial and Operational Management
- Drive financial sustainability through grants, philanthropy, endowments, and industry revenue.
- Oversee budgeting, compliance, and operational efficiency.
- Build a scalable organisational structure.
Brand and Market Development
- Develop Institute’s brand as a thought leader in manufacturing and economic policy.
- Drive publications, flagship reports, conferences, and industry roundtables.
- Build strong media and ecosystem visibility.
Candidate Profile
Education: Advanced degree (PhD, MBA, or equivalent) in engineering, management, economics, public policy, or related fields.
Experience
- 18+ years of progressive leadership experience in:
- Manufacturing or industrial sectors
- Consulting or advisory firms
- Research or policy institutions
- Institution-building roles
- Demonstrated P&L or business-unit leadership experience preferred.
- Track record of scaling organisations, raising funds, and building partnerships.
The ideal candidate has worked in the manufacturing industry, understands innovation, engages with industrial policy and has a relevant advanced degree. Should be able to work with academic and industry equally well.
Key Performance Indicators (First 3–5 Years)
- Establishment of flagship research centres and funded projects.
- Strong industry and government partnerships.
- Recognition as a thought leader in manufacturing and economic policy.
- Financial sustainability and diversified revenue streams.
- Measurable impact on manufacturing innovation and policy discourse.
Why Join IME at Ahmedabad University?
- Opportunity to build a nationally significant institution from the ground up.
- Access to a vibrant interdisciplinary academic ecosystem.
- Strategic location in Gujarat—one of India’s leading manufacturing hubs.
- Platform to influence India’s industrial and economic transformation.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV, a 250-word statement of vision for the Institute of Manufacturing and Economy, and details of three references to [email protected] at Ahmedabad University.
