Entrepreneur/Executive In Residence - Ben Franklin Technology Partners

Penn State University; United States; Remote; USD 91,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA (Ben Franklin/CNP) is seeking an experienced Entrepreneur- or Executive-in-Residence to mentor early-stage startups from a Penn State-based regional footprint. You will serve as a lead advisor across finance, sales, strategy, and operations, helping founders navigate growth challenges and accelerate progress.

The role requires an entrepreneurial mindset, strong relationship-building skills, and willingness to travel within the region.

Qualifications

• Proven business leadership experience—preferably in a technology-driven private-sector environment.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for early-stage company growth; strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skill.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams; willingness to travel regionally.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a lead advisor and hands-on partner to early-stage companies.
• Provide expertise across finance & investment readiness, sales/marketing/business development, strategy & operations, and organizational growth.
• Mentor a select group of portfolio companies based on your experience.
• Contribute to and help deliver the 10-week TechCelerator program, guiding entrepreneurs in customer discovery, business model development, and investor readiness.

Skills

Business leadership

Entrepreneurial mindset

Relationship-building

Communication

Education

Master’s Degree

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA (Ben Franklin/CNP) is the region’s leading early-stage investor and innovation partner, supporting technology-based startups across a 32-county footprint. Headquartered in State College—with offices in Erie, Harrisburg, Johnstown, and Lancaster,we help entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.

Through high-risk, early-stage investments and hands-on management support, we empower founders to launch, scale, and succeed—creating jobs and strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy.

We currently have 3 positions as Entrepreneur- or Executive-in-Residence (EIR) that we are seeking to fill in the Transformations Business Services team , and are looking a dynamic, experienced, and highly motivated individuals. This flexible position can be based in any of our regional offices namely Penn State University Park or Harrisburg or Behrend.

This position will be filled as a Business Development Relationship Adviser (Senior Professional OR Principal Professional).

As an EIR, you will play a pivotal role in supporting early-stage companies by providing hands-on leadership and strategic guidance across critical business functions. You’ll work directly with startup founders, helping them navigate growth challenges and accelerate their path to success.

This role reports directly to the Transformations Team Lead.

What You’ll Do:

Startup & Portfolio Support

• Serve as a lead advisor and hands-on partner to early-stage companies
• Provide expertise across:
  • Finance & investment readiness
  • Sales, marketing & business development
  • Strategy & operations
  • Organizational growth
• Mentor a select group of portfolio companies based on your experience

Program Engagement

• Contribute to and help deliver the 10-week Ben Franklin TechCelerator, guiding entrepreneurs in:
  • Customer discovery
  • Business model development
  • Investor readiness and pitch development

Strategic Impact

• Assess leadership teams and identify key growth opportunities and risks
• Build and implement action plans for:
  • Sales and marketing strategies
  • Corporate and operational improvements
  • Cash flow management and financial planning
• Collaborate with Ben Franklin’s internal experts in:
  • Accounting and finance operations
  • HR and talent strategy
  • Market research
  • Software/tools training
• Define measurable KPIs, track company progress, and adjust strategies as needed

Ecosystem Engagement

• Actively network and build relationships across:
  • Business and investment communities
  • Higher education institutions
  • Technology and innovation sectors
• Champion inclusive entrepreneurship, supporting innovation from all communities and backgrounds

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven business leadership experience—preferably in a technology-driven private-sector environment
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for early-stage company growth
  Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skill
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams
  Enthusiasm for Central & Northern Pennsylvania’s innovation ecosystem
  Willingness to engage in frequent regional travel (including occasional overnight trips)

Why Join Ben Franklin/CNP?

• Direct impact on the growth of innovative companies
• Opportunity to mentor and shape the next generation of entrepreneurs
• Collaborative, mission-driven environment
• Flexibility and regional influence across a thriving startup ecosystem

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Business Development Relationship Adviser - Principal Professional, this position requires:Master’s Degree8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Business Development Relationship Adviser - Senior Professional, this position requires:Master’s Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $91,488.00 - $154,452.00.

Salary Structure- Information on Penn State’s salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Campus Security Crime Statistics

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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