“NobleReach™, a nonprofit based just outside Washington, D.C., seeks to strengthen our nation’s security and prosperity through talent and innovation. We inspire the next generation of changemakers to bridge the divide between the private, public and academic sectors to solve big technological challenges. Drawing on our network of over 50 university partners and our curriculum programs, our talent initiatives provide federal, state and local governments with top mission-driven STEM talent, and our innovation programs transform cutting-edge research into ventures in the national interest.
Job Overview: The Commercialization Advisor will play a crucial role in a rapidly evolving and growing practice assisting researcher founders in successfully building products and ventures. The Commercialization Advisor will be responsible for a portfolio of ventures, working along Sr. Commercialization Advisors (former Sr. Executives and Founders), evaluating and developing market opportunities for new technologies and products, and guiding founders through startup formation, business plan development, early customer engagements, product development and fundraising. This position serves as a bridge between technical innovation and commercial success, working closely with research teams, startup founders, Sr. Commercialization Advisors and external partners to identify, assess, and pursue commercialization pathways.Responsibilities
- Conduct market research, competitive analysis, and venture due-diligence to evaluate commercial potential of emerging technologies
- Work directly with venture founders to define and execute de-risking development roadmaps
- Develop, and advise in the execution of, commercialization strategies, business models, marketing plans, technoeconomic analysis, pricing strategies, pro-forma P&L forecasts, funding plans, and go-to-market plans
- Build financial models to assess ROI and prepare investment cases for presentation to stakeholders
- Create templates, operating procedures, and marketing collateral for venture development
- Identify and manage relationships with potential partners, customers, vendors, and funding sources
- Mentor researchers and technical/business associates
- Monitor industry trends and provide insights on market dynamics and opportunities
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in physical science plus MBA or equivalent business experience required
- 8-12 years of experience in product management, business development, or strategy
- Industry knowledge in a physical sciences area, including semiconductors, manufacturing, materials, systems or other non-biology based technologies
- Demonstrated track record of successful product commercialization from concept to market
- Proven ability to bridge science/technology concepts with business applications
- Ability to mentor teams and influence stakeholders outside direct reporting lines
- Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills
- Experience in startup environments a plus
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, entrepreneurial environment; ability to exercise flexibility and good judgment in complex situations
- Appetite for curiosity and desire to learn
- Must have an entrepreneurial mindset with a strong desire to have an impact on society
- Occasional travel required”
