Accelerator and Investment Program Operations Specialist

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university seeks an Accelerator and Investment Program Operations Specialist to manage accelerator programs, ensuring operational excellence and fostering relationships within the innovation ecosystem. The role involves logistical support, event planning, and tracking program metrics to enhance the success of cohort companies.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in technology commercialization or venture creation.
• Experience with program management and operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of accelerator and investment programs.
• Plan and execute events for accelerator programs.
• Act as primary contact for cohort companies.

Skills

Program Management

Communication

Problem Solving

Event Planning

Relationship Building

Education

College or University Degree

Job description

Accelerator and Investment Program Operations Specialist

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Senior Associate Director of Human Resources @ University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Reporting to the Senior Director of Accelerators and Investments, the Associate Director of Accelerator Program Operations serves as a key member of the Polsky Center’s Accelerator and Investments team. Responsible for the day-to-day management and operational excellence of the university’s accelerator programs, the Associate Director plays a key part in ensuring the success of accelerator cohorts by providing logistical support, organizing events, and fostering connections across the broader innovation ecosystem. This role works closely with cohort companies to identify their needs and facilitate valuable relationships with mentors, investors, faculty, and industry experts.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This position requires a strong focus on operations, relationship building, and program management to advance the mission of the accelerator programs and the university's broader entrepreneurial goals.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of accelerator and investment programs, including scheduling, logistics, and managing communications with cohort companies.
• Plan and execute events for accelerator and investment programs, such as workshops, networking sessions, and pitch days, ensuring seamless execution and impactful experiences for participants.
• Act as the primary point of contact for accelerator cohort companies, working closely with them to understand their needs and provide tailored support throughout the program.
• Build and expand the university’s ecosystem in focus areas by identifying relevant industry leaders, venture capitalists, and other external stakeholders.
• Connect cohort companies with mentors, faculty, investors, and other resources to accelerate their growth and success.
• Track and analyze key performance metrics for accelerator and investment programs, preparing reports and presentations for stakeholders to evaluate program impact and outcomes.
• Support senior director in tracking and managing program budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources while adhering to financial guidelines and objectives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through a minimum of 2 years of work experience in technology commercialization, venture creation, and/or investments required.
• Experience with program management and operations and with working with internal and external stakeholders to advance commercialization activities preferred.
• Familiarity with the startup and accelerator ecosystem, including the needs of early-stage companies preferred.
• Strong program management, attention to details, and organizational skills, with experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder programs preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse groups preferred
• Proficiency in event planning and coordination, with a track record of executing successful events required.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing challenges required.
• Experience working with budgets and financial management preferred.

Compensation Range: $70,000 - $90,000.00

“The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email [e-mail] with their request.”

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Associate

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Administrative, Education, and Project Management

• Industries

  Higher Education

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