PAY GRADE: 31E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The Innovation Space is a not-for-profit innovation ecosystem and virtual and physical home for leading science entrepreneurs. The Innovation Space works to “transform science and technology startups into industry-leading companies.” Located on the historic Experimental Station campus in Wilmington, Delaware, The Innovation Space is comprised of 130,000 ft2 of state-of-the-art lab and office space with access to cutting-edge equipment alongside a suite of entrepreneurship programs and opportunities supporting startup growth.

The Program Manager will be seconded from the University of Delaware to the Innovation Space and be a part of the team at the organization. The Program Manager will receive direction from the Director – Learning Experience & Impact Measurement and overall strategic guidance from the CEO/President of the Innovation Space as well as administratively from the Research, Scholarship & Innovation office for UD-specific matters.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage startup and business-building programs and competitions as part of the Innovation Space’s program team.
• Coordinate program application cycles and due diligence conducted by the team of Entrepreneur-in-Residence as well as other functional experts.
• Coordinate activities of the team of Entrepreneurs-in-Residence at the Innovation Space and facilitate their engagement with our current clients.
• Organize and support external events at The Innovation Space and coordinate appropriate resources to support and execute each event in collaboration with the full Innovation Space team.
• Support marketing initiatives and collateral development for Innovation Space programs and events.
• Be a strong team member of the Innovation Space Leadership Team and work collaboratively across the organization to enable all goals to be met or exceeded.
• Stay in strong sync with the needs of current and future clients of The Innovation Space and partner with other organizations to deliver first-in-class science-based business programs.
• Perform job-related duties as assigned by the CEO of The Innovation Space.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree and at least two years of experience with program development and execution, business building, startup companies, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Enthusiasm for innovation and interest in the world of science startups.

• Experience with or interest in the initiation, development, and delivery of business programs.
• Strong strategic planning skills with the ability to develop, plan, and implement short- and long-range goals with particular attention to detail. 
• Ability to plan, organize, execute, and assess the efficacy of programs and events. Excellent project management skills.
• Ability to conceive, develop, and deliver presentations and training sessions.

• Excellent oral, written, interpersonal, and communication skills. Basic visual communication and design experience a plus.
• Ability to work independently or within a team, anticipate issues and needs, and proactively seek resolutions while being resourceful. 

• Ability to be flexible in the scope of their role and tactics associated with the role.

• May require occasional evening and/or weekend hours.

• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.