Project Manager, Special Projects

Job Description

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state's leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy. The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy: recruit, grow, create – recruit out-of-state companies to expand their operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to grow their business in Arizona and beyond; and partner with entrepreneurs and companies large and small to create new jobs and businesses in targeted industries.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Venture Development Team provides the Arizona entrepreneurial ecosystem with premier events such as the Arizona Innovation Challenge business plan competition, and Arizona Tech Week. The Project Manager, Special Projects will own the logistics and execution of these programs and additional initiatives that support our community. Experience running large events, national and/or global in nature, delivering on KPI's while ensuring seamless experiences for partners and attendees.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Maintain a well-organized system for tracking and monitoring physical and digital documentation.

Coordinate the scheduling of internal and external meetings and events and maintain a proactive system of communication to ensure all are effectively informed.

Manage and refine a system to coordinate, monitor, and communicate all elements of travel and lodging for our internal team as well as for large-scale events and conferences.

Create and maintain project timelines and communicate with project team members to ensure adherence and accountability.

Lead adherence to all internal processes for travel documents, purchase orders and entertainment forms.

Creates custom solutions to serve, attract and grow startup companies in and out of Arizona.

Facilitates seamless communication among cross-functional teams involved in supporting early-stage ventures, ensuring timely and effective solutions.

Provide strong leadership in Arizona’s innovation ecosystem, representing the ACA as a partner and filling in for others on the venture development leadership team both internally and externally when necessary.

Finds and develops creative ways to market Arizona to founders and startups. Leverage multiple platforms including market research, networking events, social networking, trade shows/events/publications, cold calls, and e-mail campaigning to grow a pipeline of startups.

COMPETENCY, EDUCATIONAL, & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Public Policy or a related field of study.

Minimum five (5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; highly collaborative team approach to work.

Excellent analytical abilities; able to source, analyze and present data coherently.

Proficiency with Microsoft Suite, Salesforce; Dealum and Morrow a plus.

Experience with grant writing and grant management a plus.

Basic knowledge of marketing concepts and best practices; experience with content creation or social media management is a plus.

Strong in MS Office (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel).

Demonstrated strong methodical and strategic thinking.

Excellent project management skills, ability to balance multiple priorities with proven ability to anticipate challenges, solve problems and maintain a calm demeanor in high-pressure situations.

Strong analytical, time management, organizational and interpersonal skills in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge and/or experience with change management relates to positive organizational change.

Support management in the maintenance and development of internal control policies, guidelines, and procedures for activities such as budget administration, data collection, and file storage systems.

Demonstrated track record of building meaningful relationships across a diverse group of stakeholders and the ability to manage large-scale programming from concept through fruition.

Self-starter interested in contributing to a dynamic and growing program with a non-traditional approach.

Strong attention to detail; entrepreneurial and team-based mindset.

HIGHLY PREFERRED SKILLS, ABILITIES & QUALIFICATIONS:

Well-networked in the Arizona Startup Ecosystem and beyond a plus.

Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Familiarity or experience in consulting, facilitating meetings, coaching and training.

Positive, self-motivated team player with an innate desire to help others.

Enjoys technology and learning new software platforms and tools.

Ability to attend day and evening events regularly.

Ability to take complex data and synthesize into executive-level communication.

Ability to influence without authority, works well with individuals across diverse teams and cultures.

Ability to work independently based on general guidance and experience and ability to work collaboratively.Company Description

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state's leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy. The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy: recruit, grow, create – recruit out-of-state companies to expand their operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to grow their business in Arizona and beyond; and partner with entrepreneurs and companies large and small to create new jobs and businesses in targeted industries.

The ACA is overseen by a public-private sector board composed of Arizona leaders in business and policy. The board is chaired by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. Joining her on the board is a group of prestigious private-sector business leaders, elected officials and university presidents.

The ACA’s executive management team drives the organization’s day-to-day operations, ensuring it maintains focus on the recruitment of quality companies and jobs to the state of Arizona. This team brings together the best and brightest in economic development, management and communications.

Full-time