Program Manager

Program Manager for The Global Institute on Innovation Districts

The Global Institute on Innovation Districts (GIID) is seeking a self-directed and technology-savvy Program Manager to support the organization as we bring it to new heights. We are a group of dedicated researchers and practitioners ambitiously working together to help take on some of the world’s most daunting challenges. Our work involves advising, connecting, and advancing innovation districts around the world—some of the smartest places on the planet that have the capacity to take on complex challenges, such as climate change, cancer, and infectious diseases.

The GIID team includes a multi-disciplinary group of out-of-the-box thinkers and doers, and we thrive on pushing the limits and constantly proving ourselves. Located in cities around the world, we work together on empirically led research projects and initiatives, as well as connect dozens of districts worldwide to help them evolve together.

We are seeking an independent, highly-organized and detail-oriented self-starter to join us and help us revolutionize the way we organize ourselves for impact. As Program Manager you will work directly with the President and Vice President of GIID. You will play a crucial role in facilitating smooth operations in the team by efficiently managing schedules, facilitating meetings, and maintaining effective communications with internal and external stakeholders.

In five years, GIID has established itself as the “go-to” resource for research, issues and trends defining the practice of innovation districts. With a Global Network of nearly 50 districts spanning 5 world regions and 15 countries, GIID is now planning its first major convening to bring leaders from districts together with change-makers and visionaries from an array of sectors and stakeholders invested in the success and growth of innovation districts and the overall model.

The ideal candidate for this position will have broad experience working in nonprofits and producing large-scale events. Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Program management support for the President and Board, including facilitating Board and Committee meetings and the increased professionalization of the Board
• Program management support for the President and Steering Committee, including facilitating Steering Committee meetings
• Process and develop contracts, agreements and invoicing with new and existing partners, Network members and other revenue sources
• Process and develop contracts, scopes of work, invoicing and payments to new and existing vendors
• Support GIID bookkeeper and accountant in reconciliations, monthly close and annual audit
• Schedule meetings and provide travel support for President
• Prepare and deliver progress reports for internal and external stakeholders that will inform strategy and decision-making across the business
• Establishing and maintaining professional and functional relationships with stakeholders
• Supporting invitations to districts, speakers and registrations for participants to an upcoming Global Summit, including:
• Managing the master invitation list and tracking RSVPs
• Drafting invitations and other collateral to secure speakers' participation
• Preparing briefs for speakers on their talking points and presentations

Preferred qualifications:

• A minimum of five years of experience in complex, fast-paced environments
• Strong problem-solving, interpersonal, and strategic thinking capabilities coupled with an outcome/delivery-oriented approach
• Effective communication skills in written, verbal, and visual formats, tailored for an international audience
• Detail-oriented with a proven ability to self-organize, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
• Creative approach to problem-solving with a proactive attitude and willingness to learn and adapt
• Strong grasp of technology and high proficiency with online collaboration software
• Excellent planning and time management skills, with attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent command of the US English language
• Adept at working globally and/or with remote teams

Must-have technical skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including the use of these tools for remote collaboration
• Experience with project management and collaboration tools like Asana and SharePoint
• Experience with AirTable or similar database management software is preferred

Further information

This is a full-time contract position for USD $75,000/year. This position is fully remote, with 15-30% of work outside of normal business hours given the global nature of the organization. Business hours are based on Central European Time. Limited travel is also required.

GIID encourages candidates from any and all backgrounds, nationalities, ethnicities, gender identities, and lived experiences to apply. We are an organization that is committed to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in all aspects of our work, most importantly our team.  

To apply

Please send detailed CV and cover letter to [email protected], including your name and the title of the job position in the subject.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We are looking to fill this position as soon as possible.