Program Manager – Innovation, Advisory & Startup Programs

Program Manager – Innovation, Advisory & Startup Programs

Our client is seeking a dynamic and strategic Program Manager to drive program development, build strategic partnerships, and foster community engagement within a vibrant and growing innovation hub.

This is a hybrid advisory and program leadership role focused on supporting early-stage tech startups across diverse sectors such as agtech, fintech, IoT, AI, and social innovation. The Program Manager will act as a trusted advisor to startup founders and executives—offering insights on business strategy, operations, and industry trends—while also designing and delivering high-impact programs and events that strengthen the innovation ecosystem.
This is a unique opportunity to lead at the heart of innovation, expanding networks, building community, and creating meaningful outcomes for entrepreneurs in the region.
 
Key Responsibilities
Advisory & Community Engagement

• Act as an advisor to founders and executives, providing one-on-one guidance on business strategy, operations, and market insights.
• Sign and manage advisor agreements with startups, ensuring role clarity and impact.
• Identify and respond to the needs of member startups, creating tailored advisory support and scalable services.
• Build and nurture a thriving innovation community through regular communication, active listening, and collaboration.

Program & Project Management

• Design, develop, and deliver innovation programs that meet strategic objectives, timelines, and budgets.
• Provide leadership across specific program areas, using a structured project management approach.
• Evaluate programs using feedback and benchmarking to ensure continuous improvement.
• Manage a comprehensive calendar of innovation-focused events and activities.
• Oversee the onboarding process for new startups and community members.

Partnerships & Ecosystem Development

• Promote the hub’s vision and value proposition to attract members, partners, and collaborators.
• Strengthen regional and national partnerships to position the hub as a best-in-class innovation community.
• Represent the hub in external engagements, networking events, and public forums to enhance visibility and influence.

Operational & Financial Management

• Support day-to-day operations, including use of shared resources like meeting rooms and conference suites.
• Assist in managing budgets, tracking income and expenditure, and maintaining accurate records.
• Support grant administration, ensuring compliance with funding requirements and timelines.
• Contribute to grant application processes and funding opportunity identification.

Marketing & Communications

• Execute the hub’s Communications Strategy in alignment with key messages and goals.
• Manage and update content on social media and the hub website to maximise engagement and reach.

 
Candidate Profile
Essential Skills & Experience

• Demonstrated experience in program or project management, ideally within an innovation, startup, or enterprise environment.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities with a capacity to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build strategic relationships.
• Solid understanding of financial and grant management processes.
• Confident in managing social media platforms and website content to enhance brand presence.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working with or advising startups or entrepreneurs.
• Knowledge of innovation hubs, community networks, or cluster development.
• A track record of successfully securing funding or supporting grant applications.
• Demonstrated leadership in delivering impactful programs in collaborative settings.

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