Job Description

Position Summary

Status: Full-time

Location: On-Site - San Francisco, CA

Salary: Competitive Compensation

Visa Status: Only for US Residency, Green Card, or Working Visa holders

Are you passionate about driving innovation and fostering cross-border collaborations?

Do you have experience designing programs that help startups, SMEs, and corporations grow through cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships? INNOVIT, the first Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in San Francisco, is looking for a dynamic Director of Programs to lead our efforts in connecting Italian companies with Silicon Valley’s tech ecosystem.

At INNOVIT, we strive to nurture the growth of Italian startups, SMEs, and corporate partners through carefully designed innovation programs and initiatives. We work in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Italy in Washington, and the Consulate General in San Francisco, with support from the Italian Trade Agency and the Italian Cultural Institute.

INNOVIT provides a networking platform for US companies, investors, and entrepreneurs to connect with innovative Italian enterprises, R&D centers, and technological districts. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape high-impact programs that bridge the Italian and US innovation ecosystems.

Your New Role:

We are looking for an experienced, highly motivated leader to join our San Francisco team as the Director of Programs. You will play a key role in designing, managing, and implementing acceleration programs for startups, SMEs, and corporate partners, while fostering collaboration with the broader Silicon Valley ecosystem.

As the ideal candidate, you are passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration. You thrive in dynamic environments and have a proven track record of creating and delivering successful innovation programs.

Your Role Accountabilities:

Program Design and Implementation:

• Design and implement innovation programs and initiatives tailored to Italian enterprises in Silicon Valley, helping them access new technologies, investment opportunities, and strategic partnerships.
• Designing innovation programs and initiatives for Italian enterprises in Silicon Valley, to foster partnerships and investments. Examples include curated learning expeditions and corporate innovation missions.
• Coordinate with Italian and US partners to deliver world-class innovation programs, ensuring high participant engagement and impactful outcomes.

Leadership and Strategy:

• Oversee the successful execution of acceleration programs, from program design to post-program follow-up, ensuring smooth operations and alignment with INNOVIT’s mission.
• Mentor startups and SMEs participating in the programs, connecting them with the Silicon Valley ecosystem to foster growth and partnerships.
• Collaborate closely with the Managing Director of the Italian Innovation Center to align the innovation program strategy with overall organizational goals.

Event and Network Management:

• Organize and manage high-profile events, such as Demo Days, pitch sessions, and networking activities that connect Italian startups and SMEs with US investors, corporate partners, and entrepreneurs.
• Foster partnerships with academic institutions, investors, and corporates in the US to expand the reach and impact of INNOVIT’s innovation programs.
• Collaborate with other INNOVIT team members to ensure smooth execution of events, workshops, and other activities at the center.

Offering, Monitoring and Reporting:

• Develop and customize offers for corporate clients, from concept to final proposals, ensuring that INNOVIT’s innovation and acceleration programs align with their specific needs and objectives
• Track program outcomes, monitor KPIs, and prepare reports on the success of the innovation programs.
• Provide strategic insights and feedback to improve program quality and scale the impact of INNOVIT’s initiatives.

Qualifications:

• At least 5 years of experience in program management, innovation ecosystems, or a related field, with a strong track record of designing and delivering innovation programs.
• Demonstrated experience in managing programs for startups, scaleups, and corporate innovation initiatives, preferably in an international context.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and collaborate with partners in both Italy and the US.
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Italian is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of the Silicon Valley ecosystem and experience working with startups, investors, or innovation hubs

About INNOVIT:

INNOVIT is a multi-year strategic initiative launched by the Italian Government to enhance Italy's innovation capacity and foster economic growth and competitiveness in cutting-edge R&D. Our center serves as a hub for innovation, bridging Italian enterprises with Silicon Valley’s vibrant ecosystem of startups, corporates, investors, and academic institutions.

What We Offer:

At INNOVIT, we offer an exciting, dynamic work environment where you’ll have the opportunity to shape programs that impact the Italian innovation ecosystem. You’ll gain hands-on experience in innovation program management and work closely with top entrepreneurs and thought-leaders from both Italy and Silicon Valley.

INNOVIT’s offices are located in the heart of San Francisco at 710 Sansome Street, offering a vibrant workspace with offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces.

Salary, contract, and benefits will be tailored to the selected profile.

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