About the Role
The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) is seeking a dynamic Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship to help advance our mission of establishing Metro Atlanta as a globally leading innovation hub. This role is instrumental in connecting, growing, and promoting the region's robust innovation ecosystem through strategic partnerships and programs.
The Director will collaborate across MAC departments including Economic Development, Marketing, Communications, Investor Relations, and Economic Research, while engaging extensively with Atlanta's startup, corporate innovation, creative, and higher education communities.
Key Responsibilities
Atlanta Growth Collective Facilitation and Management
- Lead and manage this private network of high-growth companies, including content development, program communications, and member engagement
- Drive program execution through cross-functional collaboration with MAC departments
- Partner with the Chief Innovation & Marketing Officer on strategic program development and relationship management
Innovation Ecosystem Development
- Collaborate on development and execution of regional innovation branding and marketing initiatives
- Support management of the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Advisory Board
- Cultivate and strengthen relationships with key ecosystem partners including incubators, accelerators, corporate innovation centers, and academic institutions
- Represent MAC at strategic innovation and entrepreneurship forums, events, and conferences
Strategic Development and Project Management
- Identify and assess regional innovation and entrepreneurship needs, particularly in areas of capital access and commercialization
- Align ecosystem priorities with MAC's strategic objectives
- Lead strategic initiatives as needed
Qualifications
Required Experience & Education
- 7+ years of business experience, ideally in the innovation ecosystem or in program management
- Bachelor's degree or higher
- Proven track record of managing executive-level coalitions or organizations
Essential Skills & Attributes
- Strong business acumen with exceptional discernment capabilities
- Outstanding project management capabilities
- Superior relationship-building skills, with proven ability to engage diverse stakeholders
- Excellence in both written and verbal communication
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively to team objectives
- Strong attention to detail and analytical capabilities
- Experience building and managing multi-stakeholder coalitions
- Ability to motivate and manage high-level volunteers and executives