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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see .
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA (Ben Franklin/CNP) is the region’s leading early-stage investor and innovation partner, supporting technology-based startups across a 32-county footprint. Headquartered in State College—with offices in Erie, Harrisburg, Johnstown, and Lancaster—we help entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.
Through high-risk, early-stage investments and hands-on management support, we empower founders to launch, scale, and succeed—creating jobs and strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy.
We currently have 3 positions as Entrepreneur- or Executive-in-Residence (EIR) that we are seeking to fill in the Transformations Business Services team, and are looking a dynamic, experienced, and highly motivated individuals. This flexible position can be based in any of our regional offices namely Penn State University Park or Harrisburg or Behrend.
This position will be filled as a Business Development Relationship Adviser (Senior Professional OR Principal Professional).
As an EIR, you will play a pivotal role in supporting early-stage companies by providing hands-on leadership and strategic guidance across critical business functions. You’ll work directly with startup founders, helping them navigate growth challenges and accelerate their path to success.
This role reports directly to the Transformations Team Lead.
What You’ll Do:
Startup & Portfolio Support
- Serve as a lead advisor and hands-on partner to early-stage companies
- Provide expertise across:
- Finance & investment readiness
- Sales, marketing & business development
- Strategy & operations
- Organizational growth
- Mentor a select group of portfolio companies based on your experience
Program Engagement
- Contribute to and help deliver the 10-week Ben Franklin TechCelerator, guiding entrepreneurs in:
- Customer discovery
- Business model development
- Investor readiness and pitch development
Strategic Impact
- Assess leadership teams and identify key growth opportunities and risks
- Build and implement action plans for:
- Sales and marketing strategies
- Corporate and operational improvements
- Cash flow management and financial planning
- Collaborate with Ben Franklin’s internal experts in:
- Accounting and finance operations
- HR and talent strategy
- Market research
- Software/tools training
- Define measurable KPIs, track company progress, and adjust strategies as needed
Ecosystem Engagement
- Actively network and build relationships across:
- Business and investment communities
- Higher education institutions
- Technology and innovation sectors
- Champion inclusive entrepreneurship, supporting innovation from all communities and backgrounds
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven business leadership experience—preferably in a technology-driven private-sector environment
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for early-stage company growth
Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skill - Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams
Enthusiasm for Central & Northern Pennsylvania’s innovation ecosystem
Willingness to engage in frequent regional travel (including occasional overnight trips)
Why Join Ben Franklin/CNP?
- Direct impact on the growth of innovative companies
- Opportunity to mentor and shape the next generation of entrepreneurs
- Collaborative, mission-driven environment
- Flexibility and regional influence across a thriving startup ecosystem
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Business Development Relationship Adviser - Principal Professional, this position requires:
Master's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
If filled as Business Development Relationship Adviser - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Master's Degree
6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $145,700.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
