Bezos Center Operations & Partnerships Manager

About the role

The Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein at North Carolina State University, supported by a $30 million grant award from the Bezos Earth Fund, comprises a dynamic, collaborative team of researchers, educators, practitioners, trainees, and staff led by Professor Rohan Sirwaiker. Together with academic, non-profit, government, and industry partners, the Center will advance research, workforce development, and outreach related to the biomanufacturing of various types of sustainable proteins while serving as a global knowledge and networking hub.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and industry partners to ensure the smooth operation of the Center’s programs while fostering partnerships that drive innovation in sustainable protein technologies.
• Support the Center’s leadership team in implementing operational strategies, managing resources, and optimizing workflows to enhance productivity and collaboration.
• Support the Center’s research, workforce development, and capacity-building activities, develop and maintain relationships with partners, and facilitate technology transfer.
• Manage Center staff, including hiring, onboarding, performance evaluations, and professional development.
• Provide guidance to staff on project execution and program priorities.
• Foster a collaborative work environment by supporting team development, engagement, and growth.
• Conduct market research on emerging trends in sustainable protein technologies.
• Provide strategic recommendations to inform the Center’s work agenda, program development, and partnership strategy.
• Support annual reporting requirements by collecting, organizing, and drafting information for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain documentation for operational processes, programs, and partnerships.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant major in Engineering, Agriculture, Life/Food Science, Biomanufacturing/Biotech or a related field, or Bachelor’s degree and two years of general research experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
• Industry work experience in the food, agriculture, life sciences, biomanufacturing, or sustainability sectors.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across complex academic and industry environments.
• Strong strategic thinking to align operational goals with organizational priorities and emerging trends.
• Skilled at managing multiple projects and meeting critical deadlines efficiently.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with executives, faculty, staff, students, and external partners.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Other Responsibilities

• Represent the Center at internal and external events to build awareness and foster collaborations.
• Deputize for the Director in their absence if required.

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date: 02/13/2026
Anticipated Close Date: 2/27/2026; if posting is still active we are accepting and reviewing applications.
Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants should upload a cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three professional references.