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.