To be considered for this position, please apply on our Careers Page: https://www.gener8tor.com/careers?gh_jid=5429462004
Community & Ecosystem Development Manager, gener8tor Sustainability
Location: Chicago, IL preferred location but will consider remote
Salary: $65,000-$75,000
Description:
Are you passionate about building thriving ecosystems in climate tech and sustainability? Do you excel at connecting people, managing relationships, and creating valuable networks? Are you excited about helping innovative startups succeed while driving meaningful environmental impact? If so, this role is for you!
gener8tor is seeking a dynamic Community & Ecosystem Development Manager to build and nurture our sustainability ecosystem, with primary focus on the Great Lakes Innovation Accelerator (GLIA) in Chicago. This multifaceted role combines community building, startup recruitment, event management, and strategic communications to strengthen our impact across the climate tech landscape.
As Community & Ecosystem Development Manager, you'll serve as a key connector between startups, investors, mentors, and industry partners. You'll own our community engagement strategy, from identifying promising startups to organizing high-impact events and managing strategic communications. Working closely with our Managing Directors, and reporting to our Senior Managing Director of Sustainability, you'll help create a vibrant ecosystem that supports innovation in water technology and sustainability.
At gener8tor we...
See genius in every community. We believe the company has a chance to accomplish a generational challenge in bridging genius with opportunity.
Never self-defeat and have a "play to win" mentality. We revolve everything we do around helping the entrepreneurs in our programs.
Are curious. We work hard to find hidden gems others overlook.
Believe no job is beneath us. We wipe down the tables and load up the U-Hauls with enthusiasm. Work as a team to get $#!^ done!
Strive for "that guy emailed me." Based on a story from our founders, we share a commitment to take a bottom-up approach to building strong, personal, 1-1 relationships. We believe that the best way to quality is through quantity.
Our values are core to how we work. If they don't resonate with you, this role might not be the right fit.
Core Responsibilities
Community Building & Relationship Management:
Build and maintain strong relationships with startups, investors, mentors, and industry partners
Manage our mentor network, ensuring meaningful engagement and value creation
Develop and execute networking events, showcase opportunities, and ecosystem activities
Represent gener8tor at key industry events and conferences
Startup Pipeline Development:
Support startup recruitment and evaluation processes
Build and maintain comprehensive databases of prospects and opportunities
Conduct initial screening calls and provide detailed feedback to program teams
Support Managing Directors in final selection processes
Strategic Communications & Brand Building:
Drive media and communications strategy
Produce newsletters, updates, and other content
Maintain relationships with sustainability-focused media outlets
Secure placements in startup rankings and investor newsletters
Program Support & Events:
Coordinate high-impact events including investor showcases and networking opportunities
Support development of investment memos and program documentation
Track and analyze program metrics and impact
Manage alumni engagement and ongoing support
Requirements
Experience with CRM systems
Excellent communication skills with ability to engage effectively with founders
Track record of building and maintaining relationships
Strong project management and organizational skills
Understanding of accelerator programs and startup ecosystems
Knowledge of or strong interest in climate resilience, water technology, and Great Lakes environmental challenges.
Flexibility to travel up to 25%, work some nights and weekends.
Collaborative, team-based mindset. You will work closely with the Managing Director, other Program Managers, founders, external partners, and ecosystem stakeholders.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and juggle multiple projects and responsibilities.