Job Title: Program Administrator, Community Entrepreneurship Program

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Summary

LiftFund, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and local partners have launched a Community Entrepreneurship Program (CEP), called Ascend Houston. Ascend Houston provides management education, market access and capital access to increase the capacity of minority-owned businesses. The aim of this program is to establish a business support ecosystem for minority-owned companies in Houston. In order to successfully execute the program, the Program Administrator will focus on leading various elements, including: the application process, collaboration with program partners, programming, data collection, mentorship, reporting, and assessment.

The Program Administrator will demonstrate vision, management expertise, in-depth knowledge of small business growth strategies, and an understanding of service delivery operations. An integral component of the position is fostering the capacity-building ecosystem for targeted small businesses. The Administrator will be responsible for managing the end-to-end application process, selection, programming, events, mentor recruitment, technical assistance recruitment, and oversight of the program cohorts. The Manager will coordinate with all partners, stakeholders, and team members at each stage of program development.

The Program Administrator reports to the Regional Vice President (RVP) in charge of Houston and the East Texas Region for LiftFund, a non-profit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This position will also support the Ascend Houston leadership team, which consist of all Ascend Houston partners.

Period of Performance

The period of performance for the Program Administrator role is based on grant funding, which may be renewable. Any modifications or extensions will be subject to review and discussion.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following is a list of the tasks and deliverables, which will result in the successful execution of the role and program. Other duties may be assigned.

Manage all aspects and implementation of program marketing campaigns as designed and developed. This includes, but is not limited to, coordinating efforts for website maintenance and program application launch.

Manage all aspects of the recruitment campaign for program participants. This includes, but is not limited to: generating and qualifying leads of qualified business owners, developing a complete interviewing and vetting process, building and sustaining referral partners, conducting/coordinating information sessions, selecting and enrolling the targeted number of participants per cohort that fit the established criteria.

Provide strategic and technical oversight of program and services including the development and management of a program management tool.

Maintain and improve strong Alumni Support Programs: Strengthen ties with program participants, identify areas where Alumni may need additional support, and establish strong understanding of future curriculum and associated outcomes.

Identify and recruit business leaders who fit the guest expert criteria for each identified curriculum session.

Maintain regular, open communication with RVP, Instructors, and Ascend Houston Leadership.

Manage ongoing program logistics for all curriculum sessions and graduation.

Serve as “connector” between participants, program partners, and established local resources.

Establish a client relationship map and foster relationship building across the ecosystem.

Provide support for the Ascend Houston Advisory Board by coordinating a regular meeting and supporting and interactive reporting structure between the Board and Ascend Houston to include agenda development, meeting minutes and calendar coordination.

Manage the tracking of all metrics for the program.

Implement custom, ad-hoc requests and modifications to the standard program(s) on an as needed basis.

Serve as the “Go-To” SME for problem resolution and solutions as needed by the program participants.

Any and all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited college or university is required, preferably in Business, Project Management, Economic Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, Government Affairs or related. MBA and/or Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

Minimum of ten (10) years practical experience in the application of the above qualifications, demonstrating a track record of accountability, relationship building and progressive growth in scope of responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Demonstrated skill in developing and maintaining strong teams and collaborations.

Knowledge of how to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and a wide range of business, industry, and community partners.

Excellent spoken and written communication skills.

Experience with program design, implementation and operations.

Previous experience in the creation and delivery of training or educational services.

Possess excellent interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity.

Possess excellent organizational skills.

Ability to develop and oversee quality assurance measures to ensure program effectiveness.

Ability to work a flexible schedule.

High ethical standards, both personal and professional.

Proficient in Microsoft Office: development and maintenance of Excel reports to include the use of pivot tables and interface to CRM systems; ability to develop and produce effective PowerPoint presentations.

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications + Bonus opportunity

Attractive Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance with significant Company cost sharing, along with a Company-sponsored Flexible Spending Account stipend

Advancement Opportunities

401(k) with a generous Company match up to 5%

Background checks are conducted of top candidates.

Send cover letter & resume to:
LiftFund/HR Fax: 210-533-2940
2007 W. Martin St. Email: jhernandez@liftfund.com
San Antonio, TX 78207 Website: www.LiftFund.com