Research Strategy & Portfolio Management Specialist
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Posted on Jul 22, 2025
Overview
Who we are
Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world’s most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We’re looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.
To save time applying, Toyota does not offer sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this position at this time.
Who we’re looking for
The Research Strategic Office of Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRINA) is looking for a passionate and highly motivated Research Strategy & Portfolio Management Specialist.
The Strategic Research Operations Specialist will play a vital role in shaping and supporting the research portfolio by optimizing research management, enhancing strategic alignment, and fostering impactful partnerships. This position will serve as a bridge between researchers, leadership, and external collaborators to ensure that our research initiatives drive innovation, deliver impact, and support the long-term strategic goals of TRINA.
What you’ll be doing
Analyze and Manage Research Portfolio
Review and assess the research portfolio to ensure alignment with the organization’s strategic priorities.
Ensure effective utilization of resources, facilities, and tools to support research excellence.
Identify gaps and opportunities to enhance research quality, impact, and innovation.
Monitor research KPIs and performance metrics for continuous improvement.
Engage and Strengthen Strategic Partnerships
Establish and maintain partnerships with top-tier universities, industry leaders, research consortia, and national laboratories.
Identify new partnership opportunities to expand the organization's research capabilities and reputation.
Collaborate on joint initiatives and ensure alignment of partner objectives with organizational priorities.
Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
Act as a liaison between research teams and key internal stakeholders including resource planning, technology development, as well as global and reginal strategy teams.
Prepare and deliver strategic updates, reports, and proposals to leadership.
Facilitate transparent, timely, and effective communication across all levels of the organization.
Set and Align Strategic Priorities
Support leadership in identifying and prioritizing research directions that align with long-term enterprise goals.
Provide insights and recommendations based on industry and academic trends to guide strategic planning.
Develop frameworks and processes to align research investments with future business opportunities.
Promote and Support Key Research Projects
Advocate for high-priority and high-impact research initiatives within the organization and to external stakeholders.
Help secure internal and external resources, and visibility for these projects.
Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure success and timely delivery of key initiatives.
What you bring
Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in a scientific, engineering, AI-related, or strategic management field preferred.
Proven experience in research operations, strategic planning, or partnerships management.
Intermediate understanding of AI technologies and their application in research and innovation management.
Familiarity with data analytics and machine learning tools; AI-driven decision support systems experience is strongly preferred.
Experience in managing complex projects and cross-functional collaboration.
Deep understanding of research ecosystems, innovation trends, and stakeholder engagement.
Added bonus if you have
Experience with AI-powered research tools, predictive modeling, or automated portfolio analysis.
Working knowledge of research management software or platforms
Familiarity with technology scouting, benchmarking, and innovation intelligence platforms.
Experience in science policy, research funding ecosystems, or governmental R&D strategy.
Capability in storytelling and visual communication for executive-level presentations and strategic reports.
Proficiency in additional languages (e.g., Japanese) is a plus for global research collaboration.
Knowledge of IP strategy, technology transfer, or early-stage commercialization processes.
Exposure to agile methodologies or lean innovation practices in R&D environments.
Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
What we’ll bring
During your interview process, our team can fill you in on all the details of our industry-leading benefits and career development opportunities. A few highlights include:
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement
Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount
Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable)
Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family
Flexible work options based on business needs
Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute
Paid holidays and paid time off
Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools and more
Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
Belonging at Toyota
Our success begins and ends with our people. We embrace all perspectives and value unique human experiences. Respect for all is our North Star. Toyota is proud to have 10+ different Business Partnering Groups across 100 different North American chapter locations that support team members’ efforts to dream, do and grow without questioning that they belong.
Applicants for our positions are considered without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Have a question, need assistance with your application or do you require any special accommodations? Please send an email to talent.acquisition@toyota.com.