Program Specialist

Job description / Role

Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Program Specialist to lead and manage our incubation and acceleration programs, designed to support entrepreneurs at various stages, including students, local startups, and global scale-ups. This role involves the strategic planning, execution, and continuous improvement of programs, ensuring they align with the organization's mission and goals. The Program Specialist will be responsible for scouting and selecting participants, engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, and ensuring smooth program delivery from inception to completion. Additionally, the Program Manager will play a crucial role in fostering relationships with corporate partners, government entities, mentors, and sponsors to enhance program visibility and impact.

Job Description:

Program Management:
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of incubation and acceleration programs, including administrative, financial, and logistical needs.
• Lead the delivery of programs, ensuring smooth and efficient operations, including procurement, finance, and event support.
• Coordinate with startup coaches, trainers, and mentors to ensure program quality and success.

Stakeholder Engagement:
• Communicate the mission and increase awareness with internal and external stakeholders, including corporate partners and sponsors.
• Actively recruit partners, mentors, and coaches for program participants and develop strong relationships with these stakeholders.

Program Development:
• Work closely with the Assistant Director to identify opportunities for new programs and services aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and strategy.
• Develop and implement systematic processes and criteria for scouting and selecting participants.

Reporting and Analysis:
• Prepare various reports related to the KPIs and metrics of programs, ensuring a data-driven approach.
• Effectively communicate program progress and outcomes to stakeholders.

Collaboration and Coordination:
• Coordinate with programs, marketing, and operations teams to ensure program milestones are achieved.
• Align program activities with the overall mission and vision of the organization.

Qualifications and Key Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in management, Finance or Business.
• Local understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems.
• Experience in an academic setting teaching courses or mentoring student group.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in innovation and entrepreneurship program design and execution in the UAE.
• Experience dealing with multiple stakeholders, including corporate or government partners, startups, trainers, sponsors, and internal teams.
• Experience running programs tailored for women, students, and social enterprises.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral) and demonstrated ability to manage professional relationships across a variety of stakeholder groups.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks while adhering to deadlines.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically.
• Proficiency in account and stakeholder management, oversight management, project and client management, and coordination between departments.
• Leadership skills in technology and innovation programs.

Salary:
AED 8,000 to 10,000 per month inclusive of fixed allowances.

About the Company

Aswaar Consulting is a professional services firm founded in 2014 and specializing in business and financial advisory. Our key service lines are Assurance, Business Process Outsourcing and Support Services, Tax Compliance, and Corporate Finance.

Our partners come from rich professional backgrounds in the big four audit firms, banking, and the manufacturing industry. Each partner brings decades of expert experience to ensure high-quality advice to our clients.