Summary

LiftFund, Inc. is partnering with the City of Houston, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and Houston Community College (HCC) to launch the Community Entrepreneurship Program (CEP), an Ascend2020 initiative. The CEP program 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 Executive Director will focus on leading various elements, including: the application process, collaboration with program partners, programming, data collection, mentorship, reporting, and assessment.

The Executive Director 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 Director 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 Director will coordinate with all partners, stakeholders, and team members at each stage of program development.

The Executive Director reports to the Senior Executive Vice President in charge of Micro Lending for LiftFund, a non-profit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This position will also report to and support the Ascend 2020 leadership team, which currently consist of Houston Community College and The City of Houston.

Period of Performance

The period of performance for the Executive Director role is three years and 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 of the program marketing campaign. This includes, but is not limited to, coordinating efforts for website 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, building and sustaining referral partners, conducting/coordinating information sessions, selecting and enrolling the targeted number of participants per cohort that fit the established criteria.

Strengthen ties with program participants, identify areas where participants may need additional support, and establish strong understanding of 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 Instructors, and Ascend 2020 Leadership.

Manage ongoing program logistics for all curriculum sessions and graduation.

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

Develop and support a strong Ascend 2020 Advisory Board with a regular meeting and interactive reporting structure between board and Ascend 2020.

Manage the tracking of desired program outcomes

Develop an ecosystem blueprint that leverages the strengths, connections, and resources of existing Houston programs and organizations.

Any and all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited college or university is required, preferably in Business, Public Administration, Government Affairs or related. MBA and/or Master’s degree preferred.

Minimum of ten (10) years of management experience with a track record of progressive responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Demonstrated skill in developing 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.
Compensation & Benefits:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications; medical, dental, vision & life insurance; Paid holidays, vacation & sick leave; 401(k).

Background checks are conducted of top candidates.

Send resume and cover letter (mail, email, fax or online):
LiftFund, Inc. / Human Resources      Email: jhernandez@liftfund.com
2007 W. Martin St.                              Fax: 210-533-2940
San Antonio, TX 78207                     Online / Website: www.liftfund.com