Executive Director, RAPID Manufacturing Institute

About AIChE

AIChE, founded in 1908, is a professional society of more than 60,000 chemical engineers in 110 countries. Its members work in corporations, universities, and government, using their knowledge of chemical processes to develop safe and useful products for the benefit of society. AIChE fosters and disseminates chemical engineering knowledge, assists the professional and personal growth of its members, and applies the expertise of its members to address societal needs and improve the quality of life. Through its varied programs, AIChE continues to be a focal point for information exchange on the frontiers of chemical engineering research in such areas as energy, sustainability, biological and environmental engineering, nanotechnology, and chemical plant safety and security.

The RAPID Manufacturing Institute, part of the Manufacturing USA network, operates out of AIChE, in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE), as a collaborative technology ecosystem (development, scale-up, education) to enable the transformation of the process industries for a decarbonized, energy and capital efficient future further advancing U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, smart, and visionary Executive Director (ED) to lead the RAPID Advancement in Process Intensification Deployment (RAPID) Manufacturing Institute. The ED will develop and implement a long-term vision for RAPID, structure and grow the team to meet this vision, oversee the management of the team and the operations of the institute.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a long-term growth strategy that ensures RAPID's sustainability, industry relevance, and continued impact beyond current funding cycles.
• Serve as the primary external ambassador for RAPID, building relationships with senior leaders across industry, government, academia, and the Manufacturing USA network.
• Identify and secure new funding opportunities, strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and revenue-generating initiatives to support RAPID's mission and growth.
• Provide visionary leadership to position RAPID as the national leader in process intensification, advanced manufacturing innovation, and related workforce development activities.
• Partner with the RAPID Governing Board and Executive Committee to establish strategic priorities, evaluate organizational performance, and guide long-term decision-making.
• Lead organizational growth and transformation efforts, ensuring RAPID has the structure, talent, and capabilities necessary to achieve its strategic objectives while fostering a culture of respect, integrity and collaboration.
• Monitor emerging trends in manufacturing, energy, technology, and federal policy to proactively identify opportunities, risks, and competitive advantages for RAPID and its stakeholders.
• Establish key performance indicators and success metrics across financial performance, membership growth, project impact, stakeholder engagement, and organizational effectiveness.
• Ensure alignment of new projects and existing activities with RAPID’s strategic plan and long-term vision.
• Participate with AIChE leadership to ensure consistency of strategy and practices across AIChE and RAPID.

Competencies:

• Strategic Visioning & Planning – Develop and execute a long-term strategy for RAPID’s growth and impact.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Build and strengthen partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
• Organizational Leadership – Scale RAPID by structuring teams, optimizing operations, and driving growth.
• Financial Management – Oversee budgets, secure funding, and allocate resources strategically.
• Policy & Government Relations – Navigate government partnerships, funding, and regulatory landscapes.
• Technology & Innovation – Align RAPID’s portfolio with emerging industry trends and needs.
• Change Management – Lead through industry and institute shifts, ensuring adaptability and competitiveness.
• Executive Governance – Guide RAPID’s Boards and Executive Committee to ensure strategic alignment.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related discipline required, with MS or PhD preferred.
• Prior success in growing a small company or business unit by creating stakeholder value and managing a highly skilled team
• Experience managing large project teams, business units, or a small business
• Organized and strategic thinker who can move from ideation through to execution
• Ability to translate broad goals into achievable steps, anticipate and solve problems, and take advantage of opportunities.
• Ability to motivate and enable others to work toward a shared vision
• Collaborative mindset
• Willingness to listen to the opinions and perspectives of others
• Knowledge of, and experience with, the Dept. of Energy and the Manufacturing USA Institutes
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and personal days
• Retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare and Dependent Care)
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role is $200,000 - $300,000 , commensurate with experience.

Work Environment

This is a demanding position which requires a personal commitment to the missions of AIChE and the DOE’s CMEI office, and the ability to handle a diverse project load. The position may be fulfilled via telecommuting by a candidate with demonstrated ability to work across geographic boundaries with multi-location teams. The position is expected to require 20–30% travel.

The American Institute of Chemical Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.