Manager, Entrepreneurship Programs

The Manager for Entrepreneurship Programs plays a strategic and operational leadership role in advancing the Venture Center's mission to expand the economic opportunities in Southeast Texas through entrepreneurship. This position oversees program execution, event management, marketing and communications strategy, and engagement with students, faculty/staff, and the broader entrepreneurial community. The Marketing Manager, Entrepreneurship Programs is responsible for event planning and coordination, crafting and executing the Center's storytelling and digital presence, strengthening partnerships, developing materials for the program, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality entrepreneurship experiences at Lamar University. This role requires strong strategic thinking, independent decision-making, creativity, and the ability to manage multiple initiatives in a dynamic campus environment.

Special Note:

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Marketing, Communications & Content Strategy:

Develop and lead a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that elevates the Venture Center's visibility and drives participation. Create or oversee creation of branded graphics, videos, presentations, newsletters, and print/digital marketing materials. Write and produce newsletters, stories, features, and digital content that highlight entrepreneurial activity associated with the Venture Center. Manage social media strategy and execution to ensure consistent, high-quality engagement. Maintain and enhance the Venture Center website with updated program information and storytelling content. Implement website changes in line with web accessibility and search engine optimization standards. Work with other marketing coordinator liaisons to coordinate joint activities and share related information and best practices.

Event Strategy, Planning & Management:

Oversee planning and delivery of major entrepreneurship events including competitions, pitch nights, community workshops, and campus-wide initiatives.

Manage event logistics end-to-end:

timelines, run-of-show development, vendor engagement, budgeting, marketing integration, volunteer coordination, and participant/speaker communication. Oversee tracking of key program metrics and outcomes; manage reporting processes and contribute to impact reports for internal and external stakeholders. Evaluate events for effectiveness and implement improvements for future programming. Lead execution and continuous improvement of Venture Center events, including workshops, entrepreneurship incubator, pitch competitions, and other community-focused events.

Operations, Administration & Leadership:

Manage registration systems, communication workflows, scheduling, documentation, and operational infrastructure for the Center. Assist with budget management, purchasing, and vendor processes related to programs and events. Provide leadership and direction to student workers, interns, or part-time staff supporting events and marketing functions. Ensure alignment of all programs and communications with the Center's mission and strategic goals. Build and maintain strong relationships with faculty, academic units, student organizations, alumni, entrepreneurs, mentors, and community partners.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience are required or an Associate's degree and 5 years of experience can be utilized as a substitution. Demonstrated experience developing content strategies, newsletters, or digital storytelling. Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Proficiency with graphic design and communication tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, social media platforms). Proficiency with full Microsoft Suite (e.g., Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint) Experience with web site content management systems (e.g., Cascade) Experience with program reporting and tracking tools. Proven ability to work independently, exercise judgment, and lead initiatives with minimal supervision. Ability to work on campus and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications:

Experience in higher education, entrepreneurship programming, innovation ecosystems, or economic development. Experience leading marketing campaigns or managing brand voice for an organization. Familiarity with research commercialization or startup-support processes. Supervisory experience (students, interns, or staff).

Key Competencies:

Strategic planning and execution Leadership and relationship-building Event and program management Marketing and communications strategy Storytelling and brand development Data tracking, reporting, and evaluation Adaptability, initiative, and problem-solving Strong organizational and time-management skills

Physical Requirements:

Able to lift 25 lbs and be able to perform a variety of physical tasks including lifting, bending, stooping, squatting, stair climbing and walking between buildings.

Job Conditions:

Work is primarily performed in an office environment during standard business hours. Occasional evenings or weekend work and limited travel may be required for entrepreneurship/marketing events related to the Venture Center.