Associate Director of Innovate Springfield

Associate Director of Innovate Springfield

Posted in category: E

About UIS:
Located in the state capital, the University of Illinois Springfield is one of three members of the University of Illinois system. The University serves more than 4,000 students in 44 graduate and 56 undergraduate programs. You are encouraged to visit the university web page at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Salary: $80,000

Summary: The Associate Director of Innovate Springfield is responsible for supporting the Director in the management of day-to-day operations of Innovate Springfield (iSPI). The Associate Director leads the high school entrepreneurship program and assists with business incubation programming, member development, fundraising efforts, and community relations. The Associate Director helps implement operational policies and procedures, manages facility operations, coordinates programs, and serves as an iSPI ambassador on campus and in the community.

• High School Entrepreneurship Program Leadership:
  Design, implement, and lead Sangamon CEO. Develop hands‑on learning opportunities, mentor relationships, and experiential projects. Track program outcomes and make data‑driven improvements. Build relationships with high schools, educators, and student entrepreneurs.
• Operations and Facility Management:
  Support the Director in daily operations including facility management and program coordination. Implement operational policies and procedures. Ensure that the facility meets members’ needs and maintains a collaborative and innovative environment. Coordinate schedules, resources, and space utilization. Troubleshoot operational issues and implement solutions. Assist in developing and maintaining systems that promote efficiency and member satisfaction.
• Fundraising and Development:
  Assist with donor relations and event planning to support iSPI’s financial sustainability. Help identify potential funding sources, prepare materials for fundraising efforts, and coordinate fundraising events. Support grant applications and reporting requirements. Cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors. Track fundraising activities and outcomes. Work with the Director to develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Business Incubation Programming Support:
  Assist the Director in designing and implementing business incubation programs, including workshops, events, and mentorship initiatives. Coordinate program logistics, recruit speakers and mentors, and ensure quality program delivery. Help evaluate program effectiveness and suggest improvements. Support member development through tailored programming and resources that address the diverse needs of entrepreneurs and the local community.
• Strategic Support and Community Relations:
  Work with the Director to advance iSPI’s strategic priorities and university connections. Represent iSPI at community events and with stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with university faculty, staff, and students to encourage participation in iSPI programs. Help connect iSPI initiatives to those of other hubs in the Illinois Innovation Network.
• Other duties as assigned. These duties include staffing responsibilities during iSPI’s events, including, but not limited to, the annual New Venture Challenge, monthly member events, workshops, and public outreach events.

• Bachelor’s Degree
• At least 7 years of corporate experience in business, innovation, or entrepreneurship
• Experience in education, curriculum development, or teaching
• Demonstrated experience in program coordination and management
• Proven ability to develop and maintain relationships with various stakeholders including students, entrepreneurs, and community partners

• Experience in business incubation, entrepreneurship education, or startup support
• Experience with fundraising, donor relations, and event planning
• Experience working in a university setting
• At least 10 years of corporate experience

• Strong organizational and program management abilities
• Passion for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and education
• Experience collaborating with diverse…