NOW HIRING FOR PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Program Director for Distillery Labs
Distillery Labs is a nonprofit organization that serves and supports entrepreneurs, inventors & innovators in Peoria, IL and the surrounding region. We aim to foster a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives innovation, economic growth, and social impact. We are looking for a Program Director who will create, implement, and manage entrepreneurial programs and events across various domains such as health, wellness, food, agriculture, smart and connected cities and communities.
Major Duties
Design and deliver high-quality and impactful programming of entrepreneurial education, courses, bootcamps, workshops, mentorship, and other learning opportunities for entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey.
Plan and execute engaging and effective programming of “curated serendipity” events, networking, pitch competitions, demo days, and other community-building activities that showcase and celebrate the local entrepreneurial talent and potential.
Market, promote and fund programming and events in collaboration with Executive Director, using various channels and platforms to reach and attract diverse and relevant audiences and stakeholders.
Forge strategic partnerships with academic institutions, corporations, government agencies, nonprofits, and other ecosystem players to leverage their resources, expertise, and networks to support and enhance the programming and events.
Evaluate and measure the outcomes and impact of the programming and events, using data-driven and feedback-based approaches to continuously improve and innovate the offerings and delivery.
Skills & Competencies
Adaptable and coachable: You are flexible and responsive to changing needs and demands, and willing to learn and grow from feedback and challenges.
Servant-minded to entrepreneurs: You are passionate and committed to serving and supporting entrepreneurs, and understand their needs, pain points, and aspirations.
Strong organizational skills: You are able to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple tasks and projects efficiently and effectively, with attention to detail and quality.
Leadership and communication: You are able to lead and inspire teams and partners, and communicate clearly and persuasively with diverse and varied audiences, both verbally and in writing.
Strategic and analytic: You are able to think and act strategically and creatively, and use data and evidence to inform decision making and problem solving.
Scope & Limits of Responsibility
You need to be able to work both independently and in collaboration with others, and take ownership and accountability for your work and results.
You need to follow the policies and procedures of Distillery Labs, and adhere to the ethical and professional standards of the organization.
You need to operate on budget and within the allocated resources.
Work Expectations
You will work 40-50 hours per week, including some evenings and weekends, depending on the programming and event schedule and requirements.
You need to be able to travel within and outside of the Greater Peoria area, approximately 10% of the time, for meetings, conferences, site visits, or other purposes related to the programming and events.
Required Qualifications
You have at least 5 years of experience in program management, preferably in the fields of entrepreneurship, innovation, or education.
You have either been an entrepreneur yourself or have experience in working with or supporting entrepreneurs and startups in different sectors and stages.
You have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Preferred Qualifications
You have experience in grant writing & fundraising for nonprofits.
You have a master’s degree or equivalent in business, marketing, entrepreneurship, or a related field.
You have experience in designing and delivering online or hybrid programming and events, using various tools and platforms.
You have a strong network and connections in the local and regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, or the ability to build and maintain such relationships.