Director, Research Programs

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 (R+T) 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 Executive Director of Research Investments & Policy, the Director of Research Programs plays a key role in advancing Saskatchewan’s Research Strategy. This role includes overseeing the Innovation & Science Fund (ISF) program and aligning it with Innovation Saskatchewan’s mandate and Saskatchewan’s Research Strategy. The Director maintains strong relationships with program recipients, monitors ISF investment outcomes and ensures continuous improvement through evaluation and performance analysis.

The position is responsible for identifying trends, gaps and opportunities in the research and innovation ecosystems, offering strategic advice and program recommendations to advance the adoption of emerging technologies, life sciences and the core pillars of the research strategy.

Additionally, the Director is proactive and analytical, skilled in detailed financial and program analysis, interpreting emerging trends and translating complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.

If you’re a go-getter who loves to learn, relentlessly pursues excellence and has the drive to impact innovation through our research strategy investments, we would love to hear from you!

Primary Responsibilities

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Managing the administration of the Innovation & Science Fund (ISF), including budgetary oversight, measuring, comprehensive reporting and analysis, utilizing insights to inform policymaking, communication and strategic investment decisions.
• Overseeing the Innovation Policy Analyst who reports into this position, offering leadership, management and mentorship, task delegation and performance management to ensure effective coordination and achievement of strategic objectives.
• Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with program recipients and ecosystem partners, maintaining clear and consistent communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Being proactive in managing needs, identifying gaps and embracing opportunities within the research community, with a specific focus on commercialization.
• Providing leadership, expertise and direction in the conceptualization, development, planning and evaluation of Innovation Saskatchewan’s strategies and programs.
• Ensuring programs advance the three pillars of Saskatchewan's Research Strategy, grow sector hubs of expertise, attract companies and talent to the province and increase investment in the province.
• Leading the development, implementation and monitoring of program evaluations and improvements.
• Conducting thorough research and data analysis, integrating insights to influence strategic decisions that align with economic growth and innovation objectives.
• Undertaking strategic program and policy development to advance deployment and adoption of emerging technologies in the province, such as artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, quantum and development of intellectual property (IP) strategies for entrepreneurs and the province. This includes leading the development of environmental scans, undertaking research and data analysis and maintaining close contact with diverse stakeholder groups.
• Identifying and pursuing opportunities to attract startups, scale ups, research commercialization and related activities to the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology (R+T) Parks in Regina and Saskatoon.
• Preparing Cabinet and Treasury Board submissions and developing proposals, briefing materials and discussion papers that require cross-ministry collaboration and coordination.
• Providing team leadership to ensure the department meets its strategic and operational goals.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

What We Want from You

• Undergraduate degree in business administration, economics, life sciences or a related field (required).
• Master’s degree in public policy, education or business (preferred).
• Candidates with significant relevant experience or have almost completed their graduate degree may be considered.
• At least 7 years of experience in public policy, public administration or post-secondary leadership with significant experience leading program, institutional planning and budgetary considerations (preferred).
• A combination of education and experience will be assessed.
• Having a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation and experience in post-secondary administration would be considered an asset.
• Proven expertise in program analysis, design, implementation and continuous improvement, particularly within post-secondary settings, research, innovation or economic development portfolios.
• Strong knowledge of research landscape and commercialization process, especially as it relates to advancing life sciences, emerging technology and applied research in Canada.
• Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build trust, influence decision-makers and foster collaborative partnerships across sectors.
• Demonstrated leadership and management experience, including team development, resource planning, performance management and strategic alignment.
• In-depth research and analytical skills to assess complex issues, identify gaps and trends, and develop actionable insights to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Understanding of technology adoption, innovation cycles and emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced data systems and intellectual property strategies.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex content to a range of audiences, including executive, cross-government and industry stakeholders.
• Strong project management skills, including budgeting, planning, risk assessment and reporting within a multi-stakeholder environment.
• Strategic thinking and systems-level understanding to align program design with broader economic and policy goals, including investment attraction, talent development and sector growth.
• Highly accountable, with demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, be detail-oriented and ensure the accuracy and quality of deliverables.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage and get work done in an environment of constant change.
• Familiarity with government processes, Treasury Board submissions and cross-ministry coordination is considered an asset.
• Commitment to public service values, continuous improvement and fostering an innovative, inclusive and forward-looking organizational culture.
• A clear Criminal Record Check (required).

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 Feb. 25, 2026. Candidates who have previously applied will already be considered and do not need to reapply.