Innovation Program Manager (Management Analyst III)

The Department of Economic Initiatives seeks an Innovation Program Manager to help entrepreneurs and startups reach their growth goals and advance Fairfax Countys innovation economy. This position sits within the Small Business and Economic Competitiveness Division and manages a portfolio of entrepreneurship and innovation programs, working directly with small businesses, entrepreneurs, and early-stage tech startups, as well as private, academic, and non-profit partners to build a thriving innovation ecosystem. The position also contributes to the county's broader economic development strategy by evaluating proposals and investments, researching best practices, and supporting policy recommendations that diversify and strengthen Fairfax Countys economy. The ideal candidate is a creative, collaborative, and analytical professional with strong project management skills and interest in working directly with the start-up and innovation community. Specific duties include: - Plan, execute and manage a portfolio of entrepreneurship, innovation economy, and economic competitiveness projects from initiation through completion, ensuring deliverables, timelines and budgets are met. - Develop program metrics and performance measures, track progress and outcomes, and prepare reports or presentations for leadership. - Support the evaluation and development of economic development proposals, funding applications, processes, policies and investments by conducting analysis, assessing feasibility and impact, and preparing recommendations. - Research best practices, identify policy gaps or barriers that impede economic competitiveness and entrepreneurship, and contribute to policy recommendations in coordination with department leadership. - Build and foster effective working relationships across the countys innovation ecosystem by engaging directly with entrepreneurs and startups, as well as private, academic, and non-profit partners, to identify needs, connect businesses to county and regional resources, and align efforts in support of goals. - Prepare clear, well-researched written materials, including policy papers, issue briefs, and Board agenda items as directed, as well as program materials for individual and broad-audience communications. - Contribute to the departments marketing and outreach efforts; convene forums and represent the department at meetings and events. Note: The assigned functional areas for this position are project management, data analysis, and policy development. ## Illustrative Duties (The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position description.) Independently designs, develops, and coordinates ongoing department programs and special projects; Performs a wide range of professional-level management work for more than one broad administrative function including complex analysis and diverse project management in a lead capacity; Coordinates and manages the work of administrative, para-professional, and/or professional-level staff in the day-to-day activities of selected projects. Plans, organizes, and coordinates changes to the policies, procedures, or processes related to multiple administrative functions (financial, procurement, budget, human resources, contract or grants administration, information technology systems, etc.); Plans and conducts or oversees studies or research activities to ensure program quality, determine