Executive Director, Smart & Sustainable Manufacturing

mHUB seeks an Executive Director to build and manage a startup accelerator focused on commercializing demand-driven Smart & Sustainable Manufacturing hardtech solutions aligned with participating strategic industry partners and investors’ market needs.

The Executive Director will lead the sixth program of mHUB’s hands-on accelerator designed to incubate 8 to 10 promising hardtech startups from around the world. The program is supported by 2 to 4 participating industry partners who help define the technology focus of the program and the Product Impact Fund I venture fund that seeds each company. The Executive Director will be responsible for sourcing a strong pipeline of teams and leading the day-to-day operational execution of the program. The Executive Director position is a full-time position that reports to the Chief Executive Officer.

Description of Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the Executive Director consist of the following:

• Provide strategic and credible leadership to successfully design, shape and execute the strategic direction of the program
• Support business development efforts to secure participating corporate partners
• Manage tailored curation of programmatic content including curriculum, speakers, industry mentors, and events
• Support the development of a national innovation network to drive program awareness, source a pipeline of applicants and share best practices
• Support the planning, marketing and hosting of local market events to drive top startup applications and investors
• Lead the advising and supporting of startup teams on key product development and business decisions
• Source, recruit, and lead the selection process for all startups applying to the accelerator
• Serve as the main POC for founders and partners during the term of the cohort
• Provide ongoing support and guidance for startups within the investment portfolio once the cohort concludes
• Identify and share best practices with mHUB operational team for areas for improvement
• Develop systems and processes for regular updates to the investment portfolio
• Ensure that the accelerator maintains alignment with mHUB’s overall strategy and mission
• Work hand-in-glove to manage the engagement with program funders/industry partners
• Support the development of investor pipeline and link cohort participants with potential funders
• Represent mHUB in the local community both actively and passively
• Develop thought-leadership content (i.e. blogs, speaking engagements, etc.) to represent mHUB and build visibility for the program

Qualifications

Candidates interested in applying should meet the following qualifications:

• 10-15 years of experience and 7+ years of leadership experience in fast-paced entrepreneurial environments specifically with technology startups, accelerators, or manufacturing industry-backed venture capital
• The candidate must have a bachelor's or master's degree with a preference for business, entrepreneurship, engineering, economics, or a related field with an innovation focus preferred
• Working experience in hardware product commercialization or consulting required
• Coaching mindset approach to supporting others as they build great companies with a proven track record of managing a device startup or project team
• Experience participating in, or working with, a startup accelerator program preferred
• Expertise in term sheets, negotiations, and fundraising
• Comfortable with minimal direction, high autonomy, and aggressive growth targets
• An ability to lead a room, public speaking, and group mentoring is critical
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks conforming to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines
• A strong network of innovative partners in energy across the country
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• A high degree of responsibility, initiative, and professionalism
• Willingness to travel when necessary

Salary and Duration

Salary range is between $160,000/yr - $180,000/yr but will be commensurate with experience. Compensation includes a base salary, performance bonuses, and carried interest incentives. Competitive benefits package.

If Interested

To apply, submit the following items:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• List of 3 professional references with contact information
• Salary requirements

Full applications should be submitted by email to info@mhubchicago.com.

Position Open Immediately.