The Difference Engine is ASU's venture studio for combating inequality in transformative and unprecedented ways. An initiative supported by the Office of the President as well as other ASU institutions and organizations, The Engine is an applied academic center, a "do tank" that leverages the research and thought leadership of "Difference Engineers" made up of ASU faculty, staff and students to build products with and for communities in order to reduce inequality.

And we are growing!

We are looking for an experienced leader to 1) operate and 2) scale our newly launched Distinguished Innovation Fellows program (DIF). DIF will change the way professionals look at their post-retirement careers while also transforming how these individuals can contribute to student mentorship and learning.

The Program Director of the Distinguished Innovation Fellows (DIF) program at The Difference Engine (TDE), will help direct, and scale the groundbreaking DIF program which provides opportunities for individuals over the age of 55 to develop and work on innovative plans for the next phase of their careers and build a better world.  DIF fellows will also mentor ASU students as they work on projects and products to combat inequality at The Difference Engine.

The successful candidate will excel at both operations as well as sales/marketing, having the vision to scale this newly launched program past its first year, while coordinating closely with the Engine’s Executive Director and DIF advisor to support the current cohort. The successful candidate will also manage DIF faculty and staff relations, collaborate with other ASU units, and providing limited direction to junior staff and students. 

Scope of Work:

Operational Work: Operating the second semester of the inaugural fellowship cohort, recruiting the second cohort of fellows, supporting DIF faculty in curriculum development, and expanding the fellowship to include student engagement.Fellow Support: Meeting the needs of the fellows, helping fellows choose relevant ASU courses, and supporting fellows in their future plans.Recruitment and Outreach: Recruiting an incoming class of fellows, speaking publicly about the DIF program, and developing a sustainable recruitment pipeline.

Qualified candidates must be able to coach and supervise program participants, while fostering and growing good relationships within the Difference Engine and across relevant parts of ASU and with outside entities. 

This role reports to the Executive Director of The Difference Engine.

**This position is located in Mesa, AZ and will require regular travel to Phoenix, AZ and Los Angeles, CA**

Full-TimeASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check.OpenThis position is located in Mesa, AZ and will require regular travel to Phoenix, AZ and Los Angeles, CAActivities are primarily performed in a regular, climate-controlled office setting subject to extended periods of sitting, standing, walking. Visual acuity and manual dexterity associated with daily use of desktop computer.Bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 20 pounds.Ability to clearly communicate to perform essential duties.Regular review of completed tasks.
 

Bachelor's degree in related field AND six (6) years' experience managing projects/client relationships; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

This is not a grant funded position and is not contingent on future grant funding.