Rob Strauss, Ed.D., is the Executive Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for the Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (OIE). In this role, Rob leads a strategic approach to position the University of Pittsburgh as a globally recognized leader in technology commercialization and entrepreneurial support. He drives initiatives that transform intellectual value into economic and societal impact, and works to establish Pitt as an innovation and entrepreneurship hub. Rob also leads human resources, finance, and all other operational activities for OIE, ensuring alignment with the Plan for Pitt.
Previously, Rob served as Director of Business Administration for Pitt Business, where he led finance, HR, marketing, and strategic initiatives for the school. Rob began his Pitt career in 2017 as Finance Manager in the School of Computing and Information after working in corporate finance at UPMC.
Rob earned his Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration and M.Ed. in Higher Education Management from the University of Pittsburgh and holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Juniata College. Outside of work, Rob is a proud husband and father – while rooting for all things Pitt Athletics.