Program Specialist

Innovation Saskatchewan is the innovation agency for the Government of Saskatchewan. We fuel economic growth by empowering innovators and supporting Saskatchewan’s vibrant tech sector and research community. Our robust portfolio of grant programs, tax incentives, research funding and the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology Parks help accelerate technologies and advance research. Innovation Saskatchewan works closely with industry, academia and other stakeholders to provide strong foundations that allow the province’s ecosystem to thrive and make Saskatchewan a world leader in innovation.

**The Opportunity**:
Reporting to the Senior Manager, Ecosystem Development, the Program Specialist plays a key role in strengthening Saskatchewan’s growing tech sector by helping administer core programs like the Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI), Made In Saskatchewan Technology (MIST) program and the Innovation Challenge. This position is responsible for ensuring the successful delivery, evaluation, promotion and reporting of these strategic programs and initiatives, while also maintaining relationships with funded tech companies and startups, partners and stakeholders.

If you’re a proactive problem-solver with a passion for innovation, technology and economic growth, we’d love to hear from you

**Primary Responsibilities**:
Duties include but are not limited to:

- Supporting the delivery of programs and initiatives that align with the agency’s strategic direction.
- Facilitating and reporting on funding agreements and monitoring program deadlines, budgets and activities to ensure accountability, transparency and effective program execution.
- Developing and recommending performance metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and demonstrate return on investment.
- Identifying program risks and advising on mitigation strategies to minimize financial, operational and reputational impacts.
- Engaging regularly with stakeholders to ensure clear communication, transparency and alignment on program direction and decisions.
- Collaborating with team members, internal teams and partner organizations to advance agency objectives.
- Developing processes and systems to evaluate programs and provincial investments in innovation, including those involving third-party organizations and initiatives.
- Conducting policy and program research, performing jurisdictional scans and monitoring industry trends to provide recommendations and briefings to leadership that are aligned with the province’s innovation and investment attraction strategies.
- Supporting the development of communication strategies that articulate the value and impact of the agency and province’s investment in innovation.
- Attending public, industry and community events to positively promote the agency’s mission and enhance its visibility.
- Other duties as assigned.

**What We Want from You**:

- 2-3 years of experience in economic development, innovation policy or program management is preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in commerce, political science, public administration or related field is preferred.
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- In-depth understanding of the Saskatchewan innovation ecosystem, specifically the tech sector, and passion for innovation and economic growth.
- Skilled at building and managing strategic partnerships with industry, government and other stakeholders.
- Ability to strategically enhance and effectively execute programs and initiatives to ensure agency objectives and broader economic priorities are supported.
- Highly self-motivated and resourceful, capable of working independently and with a team to drive initiatives forward.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and influence diverse audiences.
- Maintains strong ethical judgement and integrity while navigating complex, ambiguous or rapidly changing environments.
- Demonstrates exceptional organizational and time management abilities to produce accurate, high-quality outcomes within a fast-paced environment.
- Adaptive, flexible and committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
- Adept at identifying challenges, analyzing data and developing creative, actionable solutions to complex problems.

**What we Offer**:
We offer more than a position. We provide a pathway to growth and well-being.
- Comprehensive suite of benefits, including extended health, dental and vision care as well as comprehensive life and protection insurance.
- Public Employees Pension Plan with generous employer contribution.
- Work-life balance with paid Scheduled Days Off each year, alongside a starting vacation entitlement of three weeks (with acknowledgment of prior service within the Saskatchewan Government or universities).
- Added office amenities and perks like free parking and gym access.

**How to Apply**: