Director of Learning and Development (Entrepreneurship Programs)

Director of Learning and Development Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania (BFTP) This position leads the design, delivery, and growth of training programs and entrepreneurial support for startups, small businesses, and innovators across the region. It combines program leadership, marketing, partnership development, and direct business advising at the Business Development Relationship Adviser – Advanced Professional or Senior Professional level. Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Director collaborates with portfolio management, business transformation teams, and internal stakeholders to deliver scalable learning experiences—webinars, accelerators, workshops, and pitch competitions—and serves as a trusted advisor within the innovation ecosystem. Primary Responsibilities Design and manage a portfolio of training programs, webinars and workshops tailored to entrepreneurs, aimed at delivering 6–8 sessions annually. Identify emerging trends and recruit expert speakers for practical, timely content. Oversee all phases of program development from concept to evaluation. Lead signature initiatives such as the Big Idea Contest and TechCelerator, including recruitment, logistics, and event execution. Collaborate with Marketing and Communications Specialist to implement digital marketing strategy, email newsletters, social media, website content and SEO. Build and expand an engaged subscriber and attendee base through consistent outreach. Write and distribute the BFLC email newsletter and manage the BFLC website as a central hub. Provide business advising and connector services for portfolio companies and regional entrepreneurs. Assess company needs and offer guidance in marketing, sales, operations and growth strategies. Facilitate introductions to consultants, mentors, service providers and funding opportunities. Establish partnerships with universities, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce and industry associations across the 32‑county region. Represent BFTP at regional and statewide events, co‑program, co‑market initiatives and contribute to grant writing. Monitor and analyze program outcomes, audience growth and partnership progress, applying data to improve effectiveness. Maintain CRM systems and program databases for accurate recordkeeping. Define and execute relationship‑management strategies to identify business development opportunities aligned with BFTP mission. Recruit, engage and evaluate companies for funding programs within assigned region. Author and submit grants and proposals, cultivate partner relationships, and develop contracts and sponsorships. Required Skills and Experience Proven success designing and delivering professional development, training or continuing education programs. Demonstrated experience with digital marketing strategy, content marketing, email campaigns and social media. Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple complex initiatives independently. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; facilitation in live and virtual environments. Experience working directly with startups, small businesses or innovation ecosystems. Preferred Skills and Experience Experience designing or leading accelerator programs, pitch competitions or entrepreneurship initiatives. Familiarity with Pennsylvania’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. Background in economic development, venture investment or technology commercialization. Experience using CRM systems, marketing automation tools and webinar platforms. Experience with grant writing, proposal development and contract negotiation. Core Competencies Strategic program design and entrepreneurial thinking. Relationship‑building and cross‑sector stakeholder engagement. Marketing acumen and audience development. Data‑driven decision‑making and continuous improvement. Adaptability, initiative and comfort with ambiguity. Requirements Business Development Relationship Adviser – Senior Professional: Master’s Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination. Business Development Relationship Adviser – Advanced Professional: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination. No required certifications. Travel Occasional travel within Pennsylvania. Background Checks Employment requires successful completion of background check(s) per university policies. Position requires motor vehicle operation; valid driver’s license and motor vehicle records check will be required. Salary and Benefits Salary range: $68,200.00 – $129,500.00. Pennsylvania State provides a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, vacation, sick leave and a 75% tuition discount. EEO Statement Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Visa and Work Authorization Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr