Operations & Community Manager, Bay Area Innovation Hub

University of Chicago; California; On-site; USD 80,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago seeks a Third Coast Foundry Manager, based in San Francisco, to run day‑to‑day operations, events, and stakeholder engagement for the Third Coast Foundry hub. You will ensure a welcoming, high‑functioning space that connects Midwest innovation with the West Coast startup ecosystem.

You will lead programming, manage space operations, vendors, and user experience while collaborating with Polsky Center staff and partner universities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Experience in higher education, startup ecosystems, or university partnerships preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as on-the-ground ambassador for Third Coast Foundry in San Francisco and represent the University of Chicago to founders, investors, alumni and stakeholders.
• Translate strategic guidance into practical operating plans, processes, and communications.
• Oversee daily operations and ensure the space is welcoming, professional, and ready for use by startups, faculty, students, alumni, investors, and visitors.
• Design and oversee the in‑space experience, user journey, and policies, enabling inclusive programming and community engagement.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Event coordination

Operations management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

The University of Chicago seeks a Third Coast Foundry Manager, based in San Francisco, to run day‑to‑day operations, events, and stakeholder engagement for the Third Coast Foundry hub. You will ensure a welcoming, high‑functioning space that connects Midwest innovation with the West Coast startup ecosystem.

You will lead programming, manage space operations, vendors, and user experience while collaborating with Polsky Center staff and partner universities.