Chief Executive Officer

Job Description

Organization : Pune Knowledge Cluster Foundation

Job Title : - Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location : - Pune (On-Site)

Number of Openings : - 1

Job Type : - Full-time

Salary : Compensation shall be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

• Applications received only through the Google Form will be considered for the shortlisting process

About PKCF : -

The Pune Knowledge Cluster Foundation (PKCF) is a not-for-profit Section 8 company that catalyses innovation and sustainable development through an ecosystem approach using scientific knowledge and skilled human resources. PKCF is established by the Office of the Principle Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and is one amongst eight S&T clusters in the country.

Job Summary : -

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will lead the overall strategic, operational, and institutional development of the Pune Knowledge Cluster Foundation, a Science and Technology enabling organization, bringing together academia, industry, startups, government, and civil society to advance regional science, technology, and innovation (STI) outcomes. The CEO will be responsible for building partnerships, mobilizing resources, steering mission-oriented programs, and positioning the cluster as a model for translational research, innovation-driven entrepreneurship, and evidence-based policy support. The CEO will play a critical role in enhancing PKC’s visibility nationally and internationally in diverse forums.

Role and Responsibilities :

Responsible for the overall execution of the company, activities, as per the mandate given by the Office of Principal Scientific Adviser, GoI and PKCF Board.

Manage ongoing projects at PKCF and enable the conceptualization of multi-stakeholder projects in priority sectors for PKCF such as Health, Sustainability, Energy, Mobility and STEM Education. Catalyze collaborative programs, joint technology development, and innovation funding mechanisms.

Work in synchrony with all the stakeholders including administrative and scientific staff at the member organizations, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser GoI, various government agencies, universities, industries start-ups, and researchers at large.

Develop and implement a long-term vision, strategy for the cluster aligned with national and state S&T priorities, PKCF Board and directives from the Office of PSA.

Ensure financial and administrative compliance with funding agency and government norms.

Manage, build and lead a multidisciplinary team of professionals and technical experts.

Represent the cluster in regional, national, and international forums

Develop and implement fundraising strategies to secure financial and in-kind contributions. Work closely with program teams to prepare proposals and reports for potential funders.

Build the cluster’s brand visibility through public engagement, events, publications, and media presence

Track, evaluate, and report measurable impact of the cluster’s initiatives

Eligibility Criteria :

1. Qualification :

Ph.D. in sciences or engineering

Experience in science and technology management will be preferred

In exceptional cases, candidates with many years of relevant experience in leading and managing large projects can also be considered.

2. Requirements :

Minimum 9 years of experience in government, research, academia, industry, think tanks, or relevant national and international organizations.

Experience leading and managing large projects with multifunctional teams.

Excellent communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills.

Proven ability to organize and moderate complex projects / initiatives.

Institutional leadership capacity with a high sense of objectivity and professional integrity.

Diplomacy and inclusive / shared leadership qualities.

Experience interacting with government agencies, industry bodies, and academic institutes.

Should be willing to travel to attend events, meetings, conferences

How to Apply :

Copy the given link in the browser to fill up the form :

The form will require you to attach the following documents :

Cover Letter

Latest version of your CV

A document highlighting your fit with the role in terms of the essential and desirable qualifications mentioned above

Two confidential reference letters from your professional supervisors / colleagues / domain experts should be attached to the form link given.

Note to Applicants :

We’ve noticed that several applications are being submitted through the “Easy Apply” option on LinkedIn. While we appreciate your interest, we kindly request all applicants to submit their details through the official Google Form provided in the post.

This helps us streamline the evaluation process , maintain a complete record of applications , and ensure that every submission is properly reviewed .

Please use the Google Form link (or scan the QR code on the poster) to apply.

Applications received only through the Google Form - ( ) will be considered for the shortlisting process.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.