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Director Open Innovation Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ABC Financial

$175K - $202K/yr

This leader will drive innovation across subscription billing, invoicing, collections automation ... Time Off - with our open PTO policy, we offer flexibility in how and when you take PTO! * Days of ...

Kortx

Sales Director

Berkley, MI · On-site

Rooted in the resilience and creativity of Detroit, our team thrives on innovation, collaboration ... Open Vacation Policy * Paid Maternity and Paternity programs * Safe Harbor 401k plan with employer ...

ABC Fitness Solutions

$175K - $202K/yr

This leader will drive innovation across subscription billing, invoicing, collections automation ... Time Off - with our open PTO policy, we offer flexibility in how and when you take PTO! * Days of ...

KORTX

Sales Director

Berkley, MI · On-site

Rooted in the resilience and creativity of Detroit, our team thrives on innovation, collaboration ... Open Vacation Policy * Paid Maternity and Paternity programs * Safe Harbor 401k plan with employer ...

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All JobsOpen Innovation JobsDirector Open Innovation JobsDirector Open Innovation Jobs in Michigan

Director Open Innovation information

See Michigan salary details

$18.4K

$97K

$163.3K

How much do director open innovation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for director open innovation in Michigan is $97,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,299.00 and $147,972.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director of open innovation?

A Director of Open Innovation is a senior leader responsible for driving innovation by fostering collaboration between an organization and external partners, such as startups, universities, and research institutions. They create and manage programs that encourage the exchange of ideas, technology, and knowledge to accelerate product development and solve complex business challenges. This role involves identifying strategic partnerships, overseeing innovation projects, and ensuring alignment with the company's goals. The Director of Open Innovation plays a key part in building an innovative culture and expanding the organization's capabilities beyond its internal resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of open innovation?

To thrive as a Director of Open Innovation, you need a strong background in innovation management, cross-industry collaboration, and strategic leadership, often supported by an advanced degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with open innovation platforms, intellectual property management systems, and experience with tools for partnership management are typically required. Outstanding relationship-building, negotiation, and change management skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are essential to successfully drive external collaborations, accelerate innovation pipelines, and deliver business value through strategic partnerships.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of open innovation when integrating external partnerships into existing company structures?

A Director of Open Innovation often encounters challenges such as aligning external partners' goals with internal business objectives, managing intellectual property concerns, and ensuring smooth communication across different organizational cultures. Successfully integrating new ideas or technologies can require navigating resistance to change within the company and establishing clear processes for collaboration and knowledge sharing. Building trust, setting transparent expectations, and fostering strong internal advocacy are key strategies for overcoming these challenges and maximizing the value of external collaborations.

What is the difference between Director Open Innovation vs Innovation Manager?

AspectDirector Open InnovationInnovation Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in Business, Engineering, or related fields; often requires experience in innovation or R&DBachelor's or Master’s in similar fields; focus on project management and innovation processes
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, cross-functional collaboration, executive-level interactionsProject execution, team coordination, supporting innovation initiatives
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, tech firms, and R&D departmentsCommon in corporate innovation teams, startups, and product development units

The main difference is that the Director Open Innovation focuses on strategic leadership and high-level innovation initiatives, while the Innovation Manager handles day-to-day project execution and supports innovation processes. Both roles require relevant credentials and are integral to fostering innovation within organizations, but they differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Director Open Innovation jobs in Michigan?

For Director Open Innovation jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Open Innovation jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Open Innovation jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Director Open Innovation jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Director Open Innovation job openings:

Director Open Innovation jobs near you

Director of Information Technology

Northwood University

Midland, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Location : Midland, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 03400
Division: Finance and Administration
Department: Information Technology
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Roles
The Director of Information Technology (IT) serves as the University's strategic technology leader and a member of the Leadership Council, responsible for overseeing the institution's IT infrastructure, operations, and digital ecosystem in alignment with Northwood's mission and strategic priorities.
The Director leads enterprise digital transformation, ensuring secure, reliable, and forward-looking systems that enhance student experience, workforce productivity, and institutional effectiveness.
This role advises the President and senior leadership on technology strategy, investments, risks, and opportunities, including the responsible use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, and cybersecurity tools.
Reports to: Vice President for Finance and Administration
Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
  • Lead, manage, and develop the IT department, including hiring, coaching, and performance management.
  • Build a service-oriented, innovative, and accountable IT culture.
  • Establish and enforce IT policies, standards, and best practices.
  • Collaborate with University leaders to improve technology services and innovation.
  • Manage IT budget aligned with institutional priorities.

Strategic Planning and Executive Leadership
  • Develop and implement IT strategy aligned with the University mission and priorities.
  • Serve as primary advisor to leadership on technology investments and risks.
  • Identify emerging trends impacting higher education and competitiveness.
  • Ensure IT infrastructure is scalable and future-ready.
  • Lead prioritization of digital initiatives.

Forward-Looking Technology Leadership
  • Lead strategy for AI, automation, analytics, and cloud technologies.
  • Establish governance and ethical frameworks for emerging technology use.
  • Identify practical use cases that enhance learning and operations.
  • Promote digital fluency across the University.
  • Monitor technology landscape and position the University for future success.

Systems, Infrastructure, and Cybersecurity
  • Oversee IT systems, networks, applications, and infrastructure.
  • Ensure reliability and performance of technology operations.
  • Strengthen cybersecurity protections.
  • Manage vendor relationships for quality and cost-effectiveness.
  • Maintain operational documentation and service standards.

Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Performance
  • Lead digital transformation and system modernization efforts.
  • Implement technologies to improve efficiency and user experience.
  • Foster continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Use data and metrics to guide decisions.
  • Monitor and report IT performance.

Compliance, Risk, and Governance
  • Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and privacy requirements.
  • Establish governance practices supporting accountability and transparency.
  • Develop disaster recovery and business continuity plans.
  • Mitigate IT-related risks including cybersecurity and data privacy.
  • Conduct regular audits and assessments.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in IT or related field; Master's preferred.
  • 10+ years IT experience, with leadership experience.
  • Experience leading strategic IT or digital transformation initiatives.
  • Strong knowledge of IT systems, cybersecurity, and enterprise applications.
  • Experience advising senior leadership on technology strategy.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills.
  • Proven problem-solving ability in dynamic environments.

Expectations
Northwood University stands apart in higher education with a philosophy grounded in The Northwood Idea - emphasizing freedom, free enterprise, personal responsibility, and limited government. We seek individuals who are both accomplished in their professions and inspired by the power of enterprise to improve lives. The ideal candidate will feel a strong alignment with Northwood's mission and values, embracing a culture of academic excellence, accountability, and earned success.
ABOUT NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY
Northwood University develops free-enterprise leaders who drive global social and economic progress by promoting the importance of free enterprise, ethics, individual freedom, personal responsibility, rule of law, and earned success. Private, nonprofit, accredited, and guided by Northwood University specializes in managerial and entrepreneurial education at a full-service, residential campus located in Midland, Michigan. is offered in multiple states and online for students with transfer credits and work experience who are looking to complete their undergraduate degree. The offers MBA and Master of Science degrees in Finance, Business Analytics, Human Resources, and Organizational Leadership with day, evening, and online delivery options. The is delivered online, with a differentiated focus on leadership and business analytics using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
is offered through and at in Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sri Lanka, Ghana, and France. Learn more about America's Free Enterprise University at
NORTHWOOD UNIVERSITY BENEFITS OVERVIEW
Medical/RX (PPO or HDHP)
Dental
Vision
Flex Spending
HSA
Group Life Insurance/AD&D
Emeriti Retirement Healthcare
LTD
STD
403b/MEP Retirement Plan
Roth 403b
Tuition Assistance
Wellness Programming
Pet Insurance
Discount Programs
Generous Leave Plans

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