IGNITE Program Manager

Location: Scranton, Pennsylvania Position Type: Full-time, Exempt Reports to: Director of Facilities and Assets Management Supervises: IGNITE Program SpecialistGrant Writer
Position Summary
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is seeking an experienced program professional to lead its IGNITE business incubation program.
The IGNITE Program Manager supports entrepreneurs and growing businesses through education, coaching, mentorship, networking, and connections to funding and other resources. This position oversees program operations, participant services, programming, partnerships, events, budgeting, funding support, and performance tracking across the Chamber's business incubator facilities.
The Program Manager supervises the IGNITE Program SpecialistGrant Writer and collaborates with entrepreneurs, business mentors, community organizations, government partners, service providers, and Chamber staff to support business growth and job creation throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the daily operations, administration, and continued development of the IGNITE Program.
Supervise, coach, and support the IGNITE Program SpecialistGrant Writer.
Plan and coordinate participant onboarding, educational programming, mentorship opportunities, networking events, workshops, and related activities.
Provide participants with business support, coaching, referrals, workforce connections, funding information, and access to community resources.
Develop and maintain relationships with entrepreneurs, business leaders, mentors, funders, service providers, government agencies, and community partners.
Manage program budgets, performance measures, participant outcomes, and required reporting.
Support grant development, compliance, reporting, and funding initiatives.
Support the IGNITE Advisory Board through communication, coordination, and engagement activities.
Collaborate with MetroAction and other Chamber programs to connect entrepreneurs with financing, workforce, and business development resources.
Develop IGNITE marketing, recruitment, and informational materials, including entrepreneur information packets, event materials, and website content; collaborate with the Communications Department to finalize and publish content.
Represent IGNITE and the Chamber at meetings, events, conferences, and community activities.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in business, entrepreneurship, economic development, nonprofit management, or a related field and four years of relevant professional experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant professional experience.
At least two years of experience leading programs, projects, or initiatives, including planning, implementation, budgeting, and performance tracking.
Experience supervising employees, leading teams, or providing formal work direction.
Experience supporting entrepreneurs, business owners, organizational leaders, or community-based clients.
Strong project management, relationship-building, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to independently manage multiple priorities, locations, deadlines, and stakeholder relationships.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in business incubation, entrepreneurship, economic development, workforce development, business development, or nonprofit programming.
Experience with grants, program budgets, and outcome measurement.
Knowledge of northeastern Pennsylvania's business and economic development community.
Travel and Scheduling Requirements
This position requires regular travel among the Scranton Enterprise Center, TekRidge Center in Jessup, the Carbondale Enterprise Center, the Chamber building, and other meeting or event locations. Occasional evening or weekend participation may be required based on program needs.
Physical Requirements
Ability to sit at a desk and use a computer for prolonged periods.
Ability to travel between Chamber and affiliate locations and attend off-site meetings and events.
Ability to move throughout office, event, and incubator spaces.
Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds, including event materials, supplies, or program equipment.
About the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce works to attract, sustain, and grow businesses throughout the region. Through IGNITE and its affiliated business incubator facilities, the Chamber connects entrepreneurs with the resources, relationships, and guidance needed to develop successful businesses and contribute to the regional economy.
Employment Requirements
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable background checks. Certain program responsibilities may also require Pennsylvania child abuse clearances and/criminal history screening.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa for this position now or in the future.
Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.