Business Support Program Manager

Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC) is a network of business and community leaders working to support business, invest in strategic initiatives, and advocate for an economically resilient Johnson County. We are seeking a Business Support Program Manager to oversee and drive programs that support local business and workforce needs.

• Program / Initiative Development:
  • Develop comprehensive program plans, including goals, objectives, budget, activities, and timelines.
  • Collaborate with internal and external partners to leverage resources and expertise in program design and implementation.
  • Ensure that programs are inclusive, culturally responsive, and tailored to the unique needs and assets of the business and entrepreneurial community.
  • Continuously evaluate and adapt programs based on feedback, data analysis, and changing business dynamics.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders—including business leaders, university partners, business organizations, and local government officials—to foster collaboration and support for programs and initiatives.
• Project Management: Oversee program implementation, including budget management, timeline adherence, resource allocation, and performance monitoring in collaboration with Greater IC leadership.

• Business Resource Center:
  • Oversee the development and daily operations of a centralized hub for business support services.
  • Curate and maintain resources including guides, toolkits, and referral networks.
  • Ensure accessibility and relevance for businesses of all sizes and sectors.
  • Coordinate with local service providers to offer workshops, consultations, and technical assistance.
  • Design and manage programs that support startups and small businesses, like 1
    
    Million Cups.
  • Provide technical assistance, mentorship, and access to capital resources.
  • Partner with local incubators, accelerators, conferences such as Entre Fest, and universities.
  • Track outcomes and adjust programming to meet evolving needs.
• Co‑Working and Entrepreneurial Space Management:
  • Manage co‑working and 808 member communications and community‑building activities, and delegate to the office manager for facilities requests, rentals, invoicing, and maintenance issues.

Lead the agenda and content development for this quarterly meeting of industry leaders. This effort corresponds with a newsletter and engagement with Council members to inform all stakeholders of the efforts of business support and workforce programs, potentially leading to emerging programs.

• Bachelor's degree in business, economics, public administration, urban planning, public policy, business administration, or related field.
• Experience and progressive opportunities in educational roles in community development, business support, workforce or a related field, with a proven track record of program management and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong understanding of business support principles, community development strategies, and social impact measurement.
• Experience in data analysis and other community and business support data tools.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences through written reports, presentations, and public speaking engagements.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, businesses, and residents.
• Commitment to inclusive programming.

This is an exempt, full‑time, benefits‑eligible position. Work is performed in‑person at the Greater Iowa City, Inc. office at the MERGE co‑working location in downtown Iowa City, 136 S Dubuque St. Work hours are primarily 8:30 am–5:00 pm, Monday–Friday, but may require occasional early morning, late afternoon, or weekend hours to accommodate meetings/events. Johnson County residence is required for emergency and facility access.

A valid driver’s license and access to transportation are required. Greater IC provides competitive benefits including health/dental insurance; short‑term/long‑term/life insurance; retirement plan; parking; PTO and paid holidays; cell/vehicle/wellness reimbursement plan.

Compensation is between $50,000 and $80,000 and/or commensurate with experience.

Submit resume and cover letter to Nancy Bird, President & CEO,  Pre‑screen interviews will be online; second‑level interviews will be in‑person and include staff and key stakeholders.

Greater IC is an EEO employer.