Part Time Entrepreneur in Residence

Penn State University•University Park, IL

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pa, Inc. (Ben Franklin/CNP) is the largest early-stage investor and supporter of technology start-up companies across 32-counties of Pennsylvania. Headquartered in State College, with additional offices in Erie, Harrisburg, Johnstown and Lancaster, Ben Franklin/CNP makes high-risk, early-stage investments and provides robust management assistance to help local entrepreneurs launch and grow their companies, create jobs, and increase wealth for Pennsylvanians. Ben Franklin/CNP is looking to add flexible, experienced, enthusiastic Entrepreneurs- and/or Executives-in-Residence (EIRs) to our business services team. As experienced business people, the EIR positions will serve as part-time supplemental resources to provide financial, investment, marketing, sales and business support services and guidance to Ben Franklin/CNP staff and clients. Additionally, these positions will provide on-going mentoring and management assistance to a select few portfolio companies across the Portfolio, based on the EIR’s experience and abilities. The EIR may also participate in the delivery of the 10-week Ben Franklin TechCelerator start-up boot-camp offered to aspiring entrepreneurs to help develop their customer understanding, business model and investor presentations. With the assigned focus in mind, the EIR must be an enthusiastic supporter of new business growth coming from all possible locations, populations, and sources of innovation. Active interaction, networking, and outreach to the business, investment/finance, higher-education, and technology sectors is required. Additional responsibilities may include assisting in programs, services and activities of the Transformation Business Services Program. This program includes an assessment of the company management team, operational and growth issues, sales and marketing strategy, corporate strategy, cash management, financial planning, and coordinating/facilitating specialized support services with other staff associates in accounting operations, human resources, market research and software training. In addition, this role may review business strategies and active participation in planning sessions to define clear and measurable objectives for each company, monitor client progress and develop corrective strategies as needed.

Requirements

Typically requires a Master's degree or higher plus five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Enthusiasm for the opportunities and potential of Central and Northern PA and for educated risk-taking is a must.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment.
Frequent daily car travel to company locations is required.
Occasional overnight travel to other BF/CNP field offices or to accompany client companies may be required.

Nice To Haves

Leadership experience in a technology-based private-sector company is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide financial, investment, marketing, sales and business support services and guidance to Ben Franklin/CNP staff and clients.
Provide on-going mentoring and management assistance to a select few portfolio companies.
Participate in the delivery of the 10-week Ben Franklin TechCelerator start-up boot-camp.
Engage in active interaction, networking, and outreach to the business, investment/finance, higher-education, and technology sectors.
Assist in programs, services and activities of the Transformation Business Services Program.
Review business strategies and participate in planning sessions to define clear and measurable objectives for each company.
Monitor client progress and develop corrective strategies as needed.