Innovation and Entrepreneurship Manager

Join to apply for the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Manager role at Town of Kernersville

It’s a great time to be in Pflugerville. The person we seek will believe in and exhibit the City’s P.F.I.R.S.T core values of Positive, Forward‑thinking, Integrity, Resilience, Service, and Teamwork. All City of Pflugerville employees, both full‑time and part‑time, can take advantage of a generous 457 deferred compensation plan and a 100% paid employee assistance program that offers financial, legal, mental, and career coaching and much more.

Most City job postings remain open for 30 days, though some may be extended. Hiring managers typically begin contacting applicants within 1–30 days, but in some cases contact may occur up to 60 days after posting. If selected for an interview, you will be contacted directly by the hiring manager. Applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications will usually receive a notification within 30–60 days.

If you have not heard back after that timeframe or have questions about your application, please contact People & Culture.

The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Manager is a dynamic and proactive leader responsible for cultivating Pflugerville’s burgeoning innovation ecosystem and driving entrepreneurship‑led economic growth. Reporting to the Business Development Director, this pivotal role spearheads targeted business development and recruitment strategies to attract innovative small businesses, high‑growth startups, and a diverse mix of desirable restaurants and retail establishments to the community.

This role leverages in‑depth market research, data‑driven analysis, strategic project management, and the effective administration of incentive programs to achieve these objectives. The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Manager plays a key role in the PCDC’s vision to enhance the community’s economic vitality, create vibrant commercial corridors, and foster a supportive environment for new and expanding enterprises, including identifying and supporting transformative projects.

The position also collaborates closely with the Marketing and Communications Manager to develop promotional materials and participate in marketing efforts that position Pflugerville as a premier destination for business, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

• Proactively recruit small businesses, startups, restaurants, and retailers, aligning with PCDC's economic goals through targeted outreach.
• Coordinate and conduct site visits, presentations, and negotiations with prospective businesses, developers, brokers, and stakeholders.
• Manage the application, review, approval, and compliance processes for business attraction and entrepreneurship‑focused incentive programs, ensuring adherence to policies and applicable regulations.
• Project‑manage key economic development initiatives, including land development and redevelopment projects, ensuring milestones, timelines, and budgets are achieved.
• Collaborate with regional, local, and private partners to support startup formation and small business growth through relevant programs, resources, and initiatives.
• Assist with the identification and preparation of grant applications related to innovation, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and business attraction, with an emphasis on funding opportunities for startups and small businesses.
• Represent PCDC and the City of Pflugerville at meetings, conferences, trade shows, and community events to promote the city as a competitive business and innovative destination.
• Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications Manager to support promotional strategies, materials, and campaigns highlighting Pflugerville’s business climate and innovation assets.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned to support PCDC’s mission and objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Formal

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, urban planning, entrepreneurship, or a related field. Relevant experience may be considered in place of a specific degree.

Relatable

Work Experience:

Three (3) years of progressively responsible…