Job Description: Program Manager, SMB Program Position Overview: We are currently seeking a highly skilled and motivated Program Manager to oversee the implementation and management of the Growth Support Programs for Small and Medium Businesses at our organization. This pivotal role involves managing a comprehensive support initiative designed specifically for accelerating the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The successful candidate will be responsible for the effective delivery of all program components, ensuring that they meet the needs of the participants and align with our organizational goals. Key Responsibilities: Program Leadership: Lead and manage the execution, and enhancement of the SMB program. Stakeholder Management: Engage with key stakeholders including program delivery partners, industry associations, subject matter experts, and program participants to manage, execute, and gather feedback to ensure effective program delivery. Mentorship Coordination: Facilitate mentorship and coaching between SMEs and industry experts to ensure that participants receive valuable guidance and insights. Performance Monitoring: Regularly evaluate program effectiveness based on predefined metrics and participant feedback. Reporting and Compliance: Maintain comprehensive records of program activities, budgets, and outcomes. Team Management: Work closely with different internal and external teams. Required Skills and Qualifications: Proven experience in program management, ideally within a business development, startup incubator, or SME support environment. Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage cross-functional teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with diverse stakeholder groups. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proven ability to strategize and implement effective program initiatives. Experience in managing budgets and resources. Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management tools. Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology and business administration or equivalent. Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field is preferred. Experience: At least 8-12 years of relevant experience in program management or business development roles. Extensive experience managing large-scale business management or accelerator programs. Strong background in working with SMEs, highly desirable. Proven track record in business advisory or consulting engagements across small, medium, and large-scale businesses. About Wadhwani Foundation The Wadhwani Foundation, founded in 2001 by Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, is a global non-profit organization committed to accelerating economic growth in emerging economies. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, the Foundation operates across multiple countries, including India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. It focuses on generating large-scale job creation and economic development by empowering entrepreneurs, enhancing workforce skills, fostering innovation, and enabling governments to embrace digital transformation. Key Programs Entrepreneurship: The Foundation supports startups and small businesses through ecosystem development, mentoring, and financial assistance. It aims to nurture first-generation entrepreneurs, particularly in underdeveloped regions. Skilling and Workforce Development: The Wadhwani Opportunity program aims to equip youth with industry-relevant skills, increasing employability and access to sustainable livelihoods. This initiative collaborates with educational institutions and employers to bridge skill gaps through innovative training modules. Government Digital Transformation: The Foundation partners with governments to digitize public services and improve policy implementation. The aim is to create a more efficient, transparent, and accountable system that benefits citizens and businesses alike. Innovation and Research: Supporting research and fostering innovation ecosystems in collaboration with academia and industry are crucial components of the Foundation's mission. It funds projects that address critical challenges in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. Impact Over the years, the Wadhwani Foundation has made significant strides in empowering communities and businesses. It has worked with thousands of entrepreneurs, upskilled millions of youth, and collaborated with several governments to create scalable and sustainable impact. About SMB Programs The SMB Academy is an innovative program designed to provide small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today's competitive market. This comprehensive educational initiative offers a range of courses and workshops tailored to the unique needs of SMBs, covering topics from digital marketing and financial management to strategic planning and operations optimization. By participating in the SMB Academy, business owners and their teams gain access to expert advice, practical tools, and a community of peers, which help to enhance their capabilities and drive their business success forward. The curriculum is structured to be flexible and accessible, enabling busy entrepreneurs to learn at their own pace and apply their new skills directly to their business challenges. On the other hand, the SMB Accelerate program is a targeted initiative aimed at propelling high-potential small and medium enterprises to rapid growth and scalability. This program functions as a business accelerator, providing intensive support, mentorship, and resources to a select group of SMBs that demonstrate the potential for significant market impact. The core of SMB Accelerate involves personalized coaching sessions, advanced analytical tools, and access to a network of industry experts and potential investors. This environment fosters strategic development and innovation, allowing businesses to accelerate their growth trajectories and achieve measurable outcomes in a condensed timeframe. SMB Accelerate not only assists businesses in expanding their operations but also prepares them to sustain this growth through strategic insights and robust business practices.
Job Title
Wadhwani Foundation | Program Manager - SMB Program