CEO - Upstate Venture Connect

UVC is seeking its next Chief Executive Officer to lead the organization's continued growth and impact. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for UVC's strategy, fundraising, external relationships, team, and financial sustainability. This is a highly external, entrepreneurial role for someone who can build relationships, raise resources, connect people, and identify opportunities to strengthen entrepreneurship across Upstate New York. Prior nonprofit experience is not required. Experience as a founder, investor, business leader, fundraiser, or ecosystem builder may be equally relevant. Key Responsibilities • Fundraising & Growth: Own UVC's fundraising and revenue strategy with a goal towards long term financial sustainability. Build and maintain relationships with corporations, foundations, financial institutions, government partners, donors, and sponsors. • Network & Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with founders, investors, executives, universities, economic development organizations, and other partners across New York State and beyond. • Ecosystem Leadership: Serve as a visible ambassador for UVC and Upstate NY's entrepreneurial community; grow and engage the regionwide network, and connect founders to capital, customers, talent, mentors, and other opportunities. • Strategy, Operations & Leadership: Set organizational priorities with the Board and lead their execution. Develop and oversee the annual budget that balances strategic goals with the resources available to the organization. Manage UVC's team and financial resources to support the strategy and stay compliant with regulatory requirements. Oversee the Community Advocate network and execution of UVC's programs and gatherings, and identify new opportunities for partnerships, programs, and growth. Requirements The Ideal Candidate will have • A strong affinity for UVC's mission and entrepreneurship in Upstate New York • Demonstrated success building relationships, partnerships, and networks • Experience fundraising, generating revenue, developing and managing to a budget, selling, or securing financial support from individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations and/or government sources • An entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to move between strategy and hands-on execution • Credibility with founders, investors, business leaders, funders, and community partners • Strong communication and public speaking skills • Comfort with emerging tech including use of AI • Experience leading a team, managing a budget, and driving organizational priorities This position has a base salary of $110,000-$130,000 plus opportunity for incentive compensation Benefits We offer a comprehensive suite of benefits including health insurance coverage and 401K savings accounts.