Director, Alumni & Student Entrepreneur Engagement at Indiana University Foundation

Are you energized by the thrill of early-stage ideas and the transformative power of a strong professional network? Indiana University is looking for a visionary leader to join IU Innovates, where we are building a first-of-its-kind ecosystem that bridges the gap between our massive alumni base and the next generation of student founders. We invite you to help us architect the future of entrepreneurship at a major research university by activating the time, talent, and treasure of our 805,000 alumni. If you are a natural storyteller and a strategist who sees philanthropy and business development as two sides of the same coin, we want to hear from you.

What you bring

As our Director of Alumni and Student Entrepreneur Engagement, you will operate with the mindset of an entrepreneur to build systems from the ground up and create scalable pathways for innovation. This is a full-time, on-site role based in the United States that requires a director-level professional with a background in business development, mentorship, and strategic planning. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Designing and piloting creative engagement models that connect student innovation with the expertise of our alumni network.
• Coaching student founders to refine their pitches while facilitating high-impact mentor matches.
• Cultivating a thriving community of alumni operators, investors, and champions to support venture pipelines and scholarships.

Requirements

The ideal candidate is a proactive relationship-builder who possesses deep experience in fundraising and networking. You should be comfortable navigating complex university environments and collaborating across various departments, including IU Ventures and the IU Foundation. Proficiency in English is required, along with a demonstrated ability to identify and secure resources that accelerate an innovation ecosystem. We are looking for someone who is not only a skilled strategist but also a passionate advocate for the entrepreneurial spirit who can represent our university at high-level events and conferences.

What we offer

We provide a unique opportunity to make a generational impact within a major research institution. While in this role, you will have the chance to:

• Collaborate with a wide array of schools and programs to expand the entrepreneurial reach of the university.
• Shape the culture of innovation by bridging the gap between current students and successful alumni.
• Lead initiatives that directly fuel the growth of student-led startups and venture pipelines.

How to Apply

If you are ready to take on this challenge and help us build a legacy of innovation, we encourage you to submit your application to join our team. We look forward to reviewing your experience and discussing how your background in entrepreneurship and engagement can help us shape the future at Indiana University.