Director, Sector & Regional Development

About the role

The Director, Sector & Regional Development leads Ontario Centre of Innovation’s external engagement strategy, driving sector growth, strategic partnerships, and commercialization opportunities across Ontario’s automotive and mobility ecosystem. The role focuses on building and activating relationships with industry, global partners, government, and the broader innovation ecosystem.

Key responsibilities

• Support development and execution of OCI’s external engagement strategy in Ontario and priority global markets.
• Build, maintain, and expand relationships with industry leaders, SMEs, post‑secondary institutions, government, and ecosystem partners.
• Identify and secure high‑value partnerships that drive commercialization, sector growth, and new opportunities.
• Represent OCI at industry forums, events, and engagements.
• Maintain deep understanding of trends in automotive, mobility, advanced manufacturing, and defense/dual‑use technologies.
• Provide market insights and strategic advice to inform organizational direction and portfolio growth.
• Strengthen relationships across Ontario’s regional innovation ecosystems and lead regional development initiatives.
• Facilitate connections between Ontario companies and global markets, customers, and partners.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align external opportunities with program priorities and pipeline development.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in sector development, external engagement, and strategic partnerships.
• Proven ability to work with diverse stakeholders including industry, academia, and government.
• Strong understanding of automotive, mobility, advanced manufacturing, and defense technology sectors.
• Excellent communication and representation skills.

Required skills