Program Director

ABOUT NEW ENERGY NEXUS

New Energy Nexus (NEX) is a not-for-profit organization that supports clean energy entrepreneurs with funds, accelerators and networks. Our mission is to support diverse entrepreneurs to drive innovation and build equity into the clean energy economy . Since 2004, New Energy Nexus (formerly known as California Clean Energy Fund) has leveraged $1.5 billion in investment, supported over 900 clean energy startups, and launched industry-leading centers for solution collaboration.

As part of NEX’s global network, the New Energy Nexus California Chapter (NEX CA) is building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem to support entrepreneurs leading the race to the top. The energy transition is underway , and we’re convening the necessary technologies, partners and communities to ensure an equitable and just transition. With 20+ years of experience guiding diverse entrepreneurs through the early stages of technology development into commercialization and impact, the New Energy Nexus California team focuses on the full lifecycle of entrepreneur development and technology commercialization. Today , the California Chapter is undergoing a pivotal phase of its growth and operational independence, and seeking a collaborative Program Director to help lead the development and execution of impactful programs during this dynamic period.

ABOUT THE ROLE & OPPORTUNITY

The Program Director is an expert in setting up and operationalizing projects. Under the direction of the Head of Programs and in collaboration with the rest of the NEX CA leadership team, they will oversee developing and implementing programs to support clean energy deployment and innovation. The person in this role must be able to zoom into project details as well as step out with a birds-eye view of how to improve overall systems, structures, processes, and workflows that enable individual programs to succeed.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Development

• Oversee new and existing programs through their entire lifecycle from contracting through implementation to project close-out and/or renewal
• Work collaboratively with external partners to develop innovative mission aligned programs that are responsive to entrepreneur needs and shifting funding, policy and regulatory landscapes
• Reporting to the Head of Programs, and in partnership with the heads of departments, support program design and manage program renewal for new and existing programs
• Ensure new and existing programs are set up to deliver high impact outcomes on time and within budget to meet funder expectations, rules, and regulations, including managing expectations of relevant stakeholders if plans or deadlines shift during implementation
• Manage relationships and communications with funder representatives, implementing partners, and advisory groups, ensuring parties are actively engaged in co-creating programming, vested in outcomes, and collaborate effectively to address issues that arise during implementation

Program Management

• Oversee program execution, ensuring that deliverables are met according to schedule and within budget
• Serve as a technical expert for NEX CA on program operations
• Oversee the development of tools, resources and network access that will increase impact for program beneficiaries
• Manage relationships with program related contractors and vendors
• Establish and maintain program policies, procedures, and standards
• Monitor program performance against established metrics, analyze data, and implement corrective actions as needed
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, funding requirements, and organizational policies
• Review budgets and expenses for new and existing programs
• Ensure quality of program reporting and completion in a timely manner to internal and external stakeholders
• Prepare and submit timely and accurate program reports to internal and external stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, funding requirements, and organizational policies

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, partners, community organizations, and entrepreneurs
• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and other events
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify and address program needs and opportunities
• Ensure effective communication and information sharing with all stakeholders

Team Leadership and Management

• Set up and manage teams for new and developing programs, ensuring programs are adequately resourced for successf