Program Manager/Senior Program Manager - BEAM Circular

About BEAM Circular: 

BEAM Circular is unlocking the power of communities to transform waste into opportunity by building a vibrant regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy in California’s agricultural heartland. Anchored in the North San Joaquin Valley, we are facilitating collaboration through the BioEconomy, Agriculture, & Manufacturing (BEAM) Initiative to scale the most promising innovations in bioindustrial manufacturing. Our work includes public-private projects and programs in the areas of innovation, access to capital, infrastructure, talent development, and cross-cutting partnerships to advance economic and environmental value for local communities.

We have a dynamic, mission-driven team and are looking for partners to join us who believe in rolling up their sleeves to contribute to a bold vision; who have a results-oriented, “get things done” mentality; who lead with curiosity, collaboration, and kindness; and who are dedicated to positive impact for people and the planet.

BEAM Circular is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourages individuals identifying with any race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, and abilities to apply.

Position Summary:  

BEAM Circular is looking for a Program Manager (or Senior Program Manager, dependent upon experience) who will provide cross-cutting support for BEAM Circular projects and programs that directly support businesses in the circular bioeconomy sector, including programs that advance access to innovation resources, that accelerate commercialization and scale-up, and that strengthen access to capital. While the the Program Manager’s portfolio is expected to evolve over time, this role will focus over the coming year on launching three key programs: a startup accelerator program, a technical assistant program for local businesses, and a research & commercialization matching grants program to help scale innovations in the circular bioeconomy that benefit and advance the interests of local communities. 

Background on Initial Programs to be Supported:

1. Bioindustrial manufacturing startup competition and accelerator pilot:  Establishes a customized circular bioeconomy accelerator program in partnership with an existing accelerator program provider to raise regional profile and support firms that are establishing and growing bioindustrial manufacturing operations in the North San Joaquin Valley.
2. Technical assistance program for Bioproduct Supply Chain Advancement: Establishes contracts with Technical Assistance providers to offer targeted support services for local firms that enable them to adopt new technologies or practices that support participation in the regional bioeconomy, for example becoming biomass feedstock suppliers for biomanufacturing or adopting the use of regionally-sourced bio-based materials.
3. Research and commercialization access match fund: Awards  matching grants to regional bioindustrial manufacturing firms to support  commercialization-oriented R&D and access to public funding such as the federal government’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.

The Program Manager will be responsible for developing and executing detailed operational plans for each of these initiatives, working in coordination with internal stakeholders and staff, supplier organizations, and other external partners. Over time, the Program Manager’s portfolio of projects and programs may evolve to include other key initiatives that serve to attract and grow bioeconomy firms in the region. 

Essential Functions:  

Project Planning and Execution:

• Develop detailed program plans and KPIs.
• Define project scopes, objectives, timelines, and deliverables.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, staff, supplier organizations, and external partners to ensure smooth execution of the plans.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the programs to ensure they are running smoothly and efficiently.
• Monitor progress against objectives and adjust plans as necessary  to ensure the delivery of high-quality outcomes.

Stakeholder Management:

• Engage with internal stakeholders, including senior management, to understand requirements and expectations.
• Coordinate with external partners, such as accelerator program providers, technical assistance providers, and research institutions.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for the initiatives.
• Work with local firms and industry stakeholders to understand needs and support program utilization / participation.

Resource Allocation and Management:

• Allocate resources effectively to support the implementation of each initiative.
• Manage budgets and financial resources allocated to the programs.
• Ensure the availability of necessary tools and materials for program activities.

Communication and Reporting:

• Communicate regularly with stakeholders to provide updates on program progress and milestones.
• Prepare and present reports to senior management and other stakeholders on program activities, outcomes, and impact.
• Facilitate communication between different teams and departments involved in the initiatives.
• Maintain documentation required for grant compliance and audits.

Evaluation and Continuous Improvement:

• Conduct evaluations and assessments of program effectiveness and impact.
• Collect feedback from stakeholders and participants to identify areas for improvement.
• Use lessons learned to refine and optimize program strategies and processes.

These essential functions encompass the key responsibilities of the Program Manager in overseeing the successful implementation of the BEAM Circular initiatives outlined in the position summary. The Program Manager may also engage in cross-functional activities to support additional BEAM Circular programs and projects as needs arise.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience in program or project management, with demonstrated ability to develop and manage detailed cross-functional plans while communicating with a wide range of stakeholders
• Experience in management consulting, business technical assistance, startup development, economic development, and/or nonprofit program administration
• Able to be proactive and immediately effective in a startup organization, using general objectives to develop program plans and to design processes and structures that ensure outcome goals are achieved
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage projects with minimal supervision and strong attention to detail
• Bachelor’s Degree and 5+ years professional experience required
• Master’s in Business Administration or similar graduate studies / additional years of experience preferred
• Educational or professional experience related to environmental sustainability and/or biomanufacturing a plus.
• Candidate must be able to attend in-person meetings across the North San Joaquin Valley region

Environmental Conditions

• Indoors in a typical office environment approximately ninety-five percent (95%) of the time.
• Frequent computer use at the workstation for up to eight hours.  
• Frequently work at a fast pace with unscheduled interruptions.
• May occasionally move (walk or drive) from one work location to another.

Physical Demands

• Ability to walk, sit, stand, stoop, crouch, and climb stairs.
• Ability to move and lift up to 20 pounds.
• Visual Acuity (Far/Near).
• Regular and Consistent Attendance.

Benefits

Compensation: 

• Pay based on experience. Salary range is $70,000 to $100,000 with a competitive benefits package.
• Position based in Modesto, CA. Hybrid work arrangements permitted. 
• BEAM is incubated and fiscally sponsored by Opportunity Stanislaus, an organization that promotes regional economic growth and workforce development opportunities. The Program Associate will be hired as an employee of Opportunity Stanislaus, but will be dedicated to BEAM Circular operations. 

Changes: This job description will be updated if duties and responsibilities change significantly.  Job functions are subject to modification based on business necessity.

ADA/FEHA: BEAM Circular and Opportunity Stanislaus will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.

EEO: BEAM Circular and Opportunity Stanislaus is an equal-opportunity employer.  All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.