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 successful delivery of program outcomes, and fostering a collaborative and motivated team environment.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise program staff who report to this position
• Provide coaching, guidance, and mentorship to program staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Conduct 1:1 and performance evaluations, setting goals, and providing ongoing feedback to staff
• Promote staff development and professional growth opportunities
• Address employee relations issues in accordance with HR policies and procedures

WORKING AT NEW ENERGY NEXUS

Working at New Energy Nexus California is an opportunity to make a positive impact in the clean energy industry and be part of a supportive and forward-thinking community. It offers an innovative and collaborative work environment, fostering networking opportunities and providing diverse roles that allow for personal and professional growth.

This job is located in Berkeley , CA. New Energy Nexus California offers a flexible work environment with this position being based in Bay Area, CA and with an expectation to work out of our physical office minimum 2 designated days a week. Unfortunately , relocation assistance is not available for this role.

A TYPICAL DAY

A day in the life of the Program Director may start off with reviewing the status of developing programs and coordinating with the NEX CA Leadership Team or other project team members to create a detailed implementation plan for launching and operating programs that have already secured funding. The Director may also meet with implementing partners, funder representatives or program beneficiaries to communicate program progress, clarify and manage expectations, or troubleshoot issues that arise during program implementation. There will also be days dedicated to mapping out existing processes, identifying workflows that could be streamlined, and escalating issues to the rest of the Leadership Team to resolve together.

Requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS FOR THE ROLE

• 7-10 years of program development and management experience in nonprofit settings with diversified funding sources across public, philanthropic, and corporate funders.
• 5+ years of project management experience handling a portfolio of multiple projects with different project teams concurrently , including teams and partners with wide ranging technical expertise.
• Strong dedication to New Energy Nexus's mission, showcasing a profound understanding and alignment with organizational goals
• Experience in climate, clean energy , entrepreneurship, workforce and economic development, and/or community benefits
• Demonstrated experience in process mapping, developing and implementing policies and procedures, and streamlining workflows at an organizational level
• Proven track record of successfully managed programs from inception to completion and renewal
• Experience in grant management
• Experience with budget management and development
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to proactively anticipate needs
• Team player with respect for others and ability to work independently
• Enthusiasm for and the ability to easily adapt to change
• Strong interpersonal skills, tolerance, flexibility and collaboration skills
• Ability to adapt in a fast-paced work environment, prioritize, multitask, and meet competing deadlines

Benefits

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

Competitive compensation of $120-140K annually plus benefits including, medical, dental, vision, flexible paid time off, paid holidays and 401(K).

TO APPLY , TIMELINE, AND PROCESS

• Submit your resume and cover letter .
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
• Interview process: Qualified applicants will participate in a series of interviews. There will be 2-3 rounds of interviews.
• Accommodation: If you require accommodations during the interview process, contact us with your request.

New Energy Nexus is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color , religion, national origin, sex, age, citizenship status, disability status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression of an otherwise qualified individual, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law. New Energy Nexus hires and promotes individuals on the basis of their qualifications for the job to be filled. We strongly encourage diverse applicants to apply.