Managing Director (Center of Applied Research) | Geschäftsführung (m/w/d)

Job Summary

This critical, full-time, and permanent position involves the organizational and administrative leadership of the Center of Applied Research (CAR) at the Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (HKA). The Managing Director will be responsible for strategically developing the operational business areas, ensuring compliance with legal and budgetary requirements, and driving the digitalization of third-party funding administration. Key daily activities include optimizing service-oriented processes, supporting internal research funding and controlling, and advising scientists on securing national and international grants. This role requires strong leadership, expertise in relevant legal fields (contract, personnel, and budgetary law), and exceptional communication skills to manage internal coordination and external representation, including targeted PR and networking with funding organizations. This is an attractive opportunity to shape the research strategy of a major university of applied sciences with significant creative freedom and a focus on innovation and sustainability.