Portfolio Manager - Ben Franklin Technology Partners

POSITION SPECIFICS Build Pennsylvania's Next Generation of Technology Companies! Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern Pennsylvania seeks an experienced executive to find, assess, invest in, and support innovative technology companies in Central Pennsylvania. In this role, you will advise entrepreneurs, manage investments and portfolios, and foster a thriving innovation ecosystem that drives job creation and economic growth across the region. Why this role matters As Portfolio Manager, you will advise founders, executives, investors, and community partners while leading the search, evaluation, and support of promising companies. Instead of managing a single organization, you will help shape the success of many technology and advanced manufacturing businesses across the region. What you will do to make an impact Find and assess high-potential technology companies for investment and support. Lead due diligence and evaluate business models, markets, teams, commercialization plans, and investment readiness. Advise founders on growth, go-to-market, customer acquisition, pricing, scaling, capital planning, and team development. Present investment recommendations and portfolio updates to leadership and boards. Connect companies with internal and external experts to accelerate success. Track company progress and investment outcomes, helping to protect and grow Ben Franklin's portfolio. Support TechCelerator and other entrepreneur programs, while building connections across the regional innovation ecosystem. Who we're looking for We seek candidates with strong business judgment, executive leadership, and a proven track record of driving growth, transformation, or innovation. Experience building, leading, investing in, or scaling businesses. Knowledge of venture investing, commercialization, business strategy, or corporate development. Ability to assess markets, teams, competition, financials, and growth potential. Executive presence with the ability to influence founders, investors, boards, and community leaders. Excellent communicator with strong relationship-building and decision-making skills. Experience in one or more of the following environments is particularly valuable: Technology-based businesses Founder-led organizations Manufacturing and industrial technology Software or SaaS companies Engineering organizations Healthcare or life sciences Advanced materials or product development Venture-backed or investor-supported companies Organizations experiencing rapid growth or transformation. Many successful candidates have been founders, CEOs, presidents, COOs, CROs, general managers, business unit leaders, or growth executives. We also welcome applicants with comparable executive leadership and a record of organizational impact. Experience with boards, investors, universities, partners, or economic development organizations is a plus, but not required. Preparing Your Application In your resume and cover letter, showcase specific business impact, such as: Quantifying business growth, operational improvements, commercialization successes, or investment outcomes. Describing organizations you built, led, advised, or transformed. Highlighting fundraising, strategic partnerships, market expansion, or executive leadership accomplishments. Why Ben Franklin Technology Partners Ben Franklin is one of Pennsylvania's most respected technology-based economic development organizations. You'll collaborate with entrepreneurs, investors, universities, manufacturers, economic development partners, and experienced professionals while helping innovative companies commercialize technology, create jobs, and generate lasting economic impact across a 32-county region. Work Arrangement This is an in-person role and is based in our office in State College, PA. Occasional overnight travel may be needed to visit business clients and partners across our 32-county PA region. If you have built organizations, evaluated business opportunities, developed leaders, or helped innovative companies grow, we encourage you to apply and help shape Pennsylvania's next generation of technology companies. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Master's Degree 8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Salary & Benefits The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $102,936.00 - $154,452.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. 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