Open Senior Manager/Director, Launchpad

UICCA is hiring a Senior Manager/Director for their climate tech Launchpad in Sharjah, UAE. The role involves designing and managing startup acceleration programs, developing sponsorship opportunities, and engaging with the climate tech ecosystem. The ideal candidate should have strong business acumen, strategic implementation skills, and an established regional network. Responsibilities include team management, establishing operational frameworks, and monitoring startup performance to drive impact in addressing climate challenges.
• Level to be determined based on selected candidate's experience and expertise.
Job Purpose

UICCA is seeking an ambitious and innovative leader to build and oversee our climate tech-focused Launchpad. The Senior Manager, Launchpad will be responsible for the design, development, and delivery of startup acceleration programs to address the climate crisis. Through the Launchpad, we support start-ups to establish their businesses in the UAE, bring their ideas to this market, and address regulatory challenges.

This role will have the valuable opportunity to lead one of UICCA’s core programmes, driving impact as we leverage innovative technologies to solve climate issues.

The ideal candidate is business-savvy, bringing forth both strategic and implementation talent and expertise. This leader is both optimistic and highly practical, bringing energy and speed to the work. Given the complex ecosystem in which we operate, we seek a leader with an established regional network who thoughtfully engages stakeholders to design effective and impactful strategies and programmes.
Key Responsibilities

Establish and Manage the Launchpad:
• Develop and implement the strategic vision for the Launchpad, ensuring alignment with UICCA’s overall mission and objectives.
• Design the operational framework and establish processes to effectively run the Launchpad, including program timelines, milestones, and performance metrics.
• Oversee the recruitment and selection of startups, ensuring a diverse and high-potential cohort each cycle.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance and progress of startups within the Launchpad, providing guidance and support as needed.

Develop and Oversee Sponsorship Programs:
• Identify and secure sponsorship opportunities to fund Launchpad programs, ensuring financial sustainability and growth.
• Build and maintain relationships with potential sponsors, presenting compelling value propositions that align with their interests and objectives.
• Develop tailored sponsorship packages and agreements, negotiating terms that benefit both the Launchpad and the sponsors.
• Track and report on the impact and outcomes of sponsorships, ensuring transparency and accountability to sponsors.

Engage with the Climate Tech Ecosystem:
• Actively participate in industry events, conferences, and forums to represent UICCA and the Launchpad, enhancing its visibility and reputation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including startups, regulators, industry partners, businesses, and investors.
• Facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among ecosystem players to drive innovation and collective problem-solving.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies, adapting the Launchpad’s strategy and programs accordingly.

Team Management:
• Recruit, onboard, and develop a high-performing team of internal and outsourced professionals, fostering a collaborative and results-driven culture.
• Set clear goals and performance expectations for team members, providing regular feedback and support to drive their professional growth.
• Allocate resources effectively to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of Launchpad programs.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence within the team.

Build Strategic Partnerships:
• Identify and pursue strategic partnership opportunities that enhance the Launchpad’s capabilities and reach.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with a diverse range of partners, including academic institutions, research organizations, corporate entities, and governmental bodies.
• Develop joint initiatives and collaborative projects with partners, leveraging their expertise and resources to achieve common goals.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships and continuously seek ways to strengthen and expand them for mutual benefit.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Bachelor’s degree with at least 10 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience dealing with startups and designing accelerator programmes.
• Deep knowledge of the challenges in the UAE regarding adaptation, carbon, and circular economy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and office management software.
• A strong network in the UAE and globally with respect to the climate tech ecosystem, particularly with accelerators, start-ups and investors.
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of diplomacy.
• Excellent business and strategic planning skills.
• Expertise in grants and contract administration.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence people, solve problems, negotiate and resolve conflicts.
• Ability to build strong relationships within the organisation and beyond.

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