Community Manager
Central District Management Association, Inc
The STEAM Garden Entrepreneurial Center
Position Description: Community Engagement Manager (CEM)
Organization Profile:
Founded in 1998, CDMA, Inc.'s mission is to use entrepreneurship and seek investment to revitalize the Central Avenue Business Corridor. Encourage entrepreneurial mindsets and assist in creating opportunities. We have a bold vision to grow 100 new businesses and support hundreds of others in the busiest and most active commercial corridor of the capital city of Albany. To this end, CDMA, Inc. created the STEAM Garden incubator. The STEAM garden is a 32,000-square-foot business incubator, maker space, and entrepreneurial training center at the heart of the most diverse and exciting neighborhoods in the heart of the capital city of Albany.
About Us:
We are a 501(c)3 not-for-profit business incubator & business improvement district dedicated to fostering the growth and success of start-ups and existing businesses in Albany, New York. Through our comprehensive support programs, we aim to nurture innovation, facilitate business development, and contribute to the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in our community.
Location: Albany, New York
Type: Full-time or part-time, 2-year
grant-funded position with the potential for extension
Position Overview:
The Community Manager will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of our incubator, acting as a key liaison between the incubator, its members, and the wider business community. This role involves providing direct support, communications, and mentorship interaction to start-ups and existing businesses, facilitating networking opportunities, and ensuring the smooth administration of our programs and services. The Community Manager will work closely with the BID’s executive team to achieve strategic objectives and drive the mission of fostering business success in Albany.
Key Responsibility areas:
Member Support and Mentorship: With the support of our executive director, the CEM will provide ongoing support and guidance to incubator members, including start-ups and existing businesses, to help them achieve their business goals. Offer mentorship, resources, and access to necessary tools, partners, and connections.
Community Engagement: Actively engage with the local business community to foster partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities for incubator members. Organize and participate in networking events, workshops, and seminars.
Program Administration: Assist in the implementation and management of incubator programs, ensuring they meet the needs of members and align with our strategic goals. Monitor program effectiveness and suggest improvements as needed. The community manager will oversee and document the growth and the pathways of our members and clients.
Communication: Serve as a key point of contact for incubator members, partners, stakeholders, and members. Maintain clear and effective communication channels, including newsletters, social media, and other platforms.
Event Planning and Management: Coordinate and manage events such as pitch nights, recruitment workshops, and networking events to support member growth and community engagement. Work with partners to develop cohorts and training opportunities.
Reporting and Documentation: Compile reports on member progress, program effectiveness, and community engagement activities to support grant reporting and inform future strategy.
Customer Service Orientation—anticipate and respond promptly and professionally to requests and needs from all key stakeholders and set clear expectations while taking other perspectives into account.
Manage and oversee the STEAM Works Maker Space.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, or related field.
Minimum of 2 years experience in a community management, mentorship, or business support role within a start-up ecosystem or business incubator, maker spaces etc.
Strong understanding of the challenges and needs of start-ups and small businesses.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and networking skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Good understanding and a willingness to learn the use of technology tools like Google Workspace, ChatGPT, and social communication platforms.
Proven ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks and projects with attention to detail.
Experience in event planning and management.
Knowledge of local business resources, funding mechanisms, and support services is preferred.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
Entrepreneurship experience is a great advantage
Compensation:
Competitive pay commensurate with experience. The benefits package can include health insurance (Wait period), paid time off, and professional development & networking opportunities. The starting hourly range is $20-33.00 per hour, plus benefits. This is a two-year contract as it relates to the grant funding. Consideration for part-time/split shifts will be considered.
To Apply:
Please send your resume, cover letter, and three professional references In your cover letter, explain why you are interested in this position and how your experience makes you a perfect fit for our business incubator. This is an onsite position.
Application Deadline: March 25th 2024
CDMA, Inc. the operator of the STEAM Garden is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Our goal is to create a diverse workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute to our community-based mission. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
This position is partially funded through a two-year grant of American rescue plan funds administrated by and granted to the CDMA, Inc. by the County of Albany
WWW.STEAMGarden.ORG