Hans Dorfi, PhD

About the Role

The Executive Director and Chief Innovation Officer will lead the Polymer Industry Cluster (PIC) in its bold vision to position Greater Akron as a global hub for next-generation polymer technologies. This role requires a strategic leader with deep technical expertise, a track record of driving large-scale transformation, and a passion for fostering innovation and commercialization through cross-sector collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead PIC’s strategic initiatives to accelerate innovation, sustainability, and advanced materials development in the polymer industry.
• Drive ecosystem-building efforts by aligning industry, academia, startups, and government partners to foster collaboration and economic growth.
• Lead open innovation programs, including consortia, partnerships, and technology commercialization efforts.
• Champion digital innovation and next-generation product development within the polymer sector.
• Serve as a visible advocate and spokesperson for PIC, representing the organization at conferences, industry events, and in media engagements.
• Cultivate relationships with global and regional stakeholders to advance PIC’s mission and expand its influence.
• Oversee the operational and financial health of PIC, ensuring alignment with its long-term vision and goals.

Qualifications

• Advanced engineering degree (Ph.D. or Master’s) from a top-tier institution; degrees from The Ohio State University and Vienna University of Technology are noted.
• Over two decades of leadership experience in the polymer, mobility, or related high-tech sectors, with a focus on innovation and transformation.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale product and technology portfolio transformations, including digital innovation and sustainability initiatives.
• Experience in board roles for startups, academic-industry consortia, non-profits, or similar organizations.
• Background in adjunct faculty roles, industry advising, or collaboration with academic institutions such as Stanford, The Ohio State University, or Virginia Tech.
• Strong ties to the Akron region and a commitment to driving economic growth with a global perspective.

Skills

• Strategic leadership and visionary thinking with the ability to align diverse stakeholders toward common goals.
• Deep technical knowledge in polymers, advanced materials, or related fields.
• Expertise in open innovation, ecosystem building, and technology commercialization.
• Exceptional communication and public speaking skills, with experience as an invited speaker at technology conferences.
• Strong relationship-building and partnership development across industry, academia, and government.
• Proven ability to drive operational and financial success in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.