Senior Associate Director for Industry and Technology Transactions

Dean Of Research / Office Of Technology Licensing

The Senior Associate Director for Industry and Technology Transactions is a leadership position within Stanford's Office of Technology Licensing, responsible for driving complex agreements that advance Stanford's mission of research excellence, innovation, and strategic collaboration. The position leads a team of contracting professionals and serves as the primary point of contact for strategic negotiations with industry leaders, strategic partners, and non-profit organizations.

This role oversees the full lifecycle of complex transactions - from drafting through negotiation and execution - to ensure alignment with Stanford's policies, compliance requirements, and strategic objectives. The portfolio includes technology licensing agreements, research collaborations, strategic industry alliances, and mission-aligned transactions with non-profit organizations. The Senior Associate Director establishes clear risk frameworks and deal strategies that protect the University's interests while enabling sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships.

A key expectation is the ability to act as a strategic advisor who can translate complex legal concepts into practical, actionable business recommendations. The role partners closely with faculty, researchers, and internal contracting and licensing staff, as well as other Stanford offices to structure agreements that foster innovation, safeguard intellectual property and academic values, and support successful long-term relationships with external partners.

This position requires excellent judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to balance risk with opportunity. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative problem-solver who combines strong legal acumen with business insight to drive agreements that create value for Stanford and its partners. A JD or equivalent advanced degree is preferred, with 9+ years of experience in technology transfer, licensing, or complex commercial transactions and a track record of leading high-value negotiations in domains such as biotech, engineering, or software.

Core duties include : directing staff and providing leadership to Industrial Contracts officers, developing strategic plans for ICO, negotiating major research agreements, and providing guidance to faculty and senior management on Stanford policies on intellectual property, contracts, and other related issues.

Minimum requirements include a bachelor's degree and nine years of relevant experience, demonstrated leadership, excellent communication skills, advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, expertise in intellectual property, licensing, contract and regulatory issues, and the ability to work efficiently within a complex university administration.

Physical requirements include frequently performing desk-based computer tasks, seated work, and use of light / fine grasping; occasionally standing, walking, using a telephone, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects that weigh up to 10 pounds; and rarely writing by hand.

Interpersonal skills, a commitment to safety, and compliance with all applicable University policies and procedures are also required.

For on-site or hybrid positions, the expected pay range is $213,783-$264,938 per annum. Stanford University provides a comprehensive rewards package, including career development programs, tuition reimbursement, health care benefits, and more. Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.