PROGRAM MANAGER, HOUSING VENTURE LAB

WHO WE ARE

Terner Labs scales critical housing innovation at the intersection of affordability, equity, and sustainability. Founded by leaders from the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley, Terner Labs transforms innovative research and policy expertise into actionable tools, programs, and partnerships. We currently have three main programs: a Housing Venture Lab that supports emerging nonprofit and for-profit entrepreneurs, a Data Solutions Lab that builds data tools for policy decision-makers, and a Builders Lab that supports firms advancing innovative construction methods to produce housing.

The Housing Venture Lab (HVL) is the nation’s leading accelerator for mission-driven innovators working to make housing more accessible, equitable and sustainable. Selected ventures receive seed funding, individual coaching from our network of housing leaders and industry experts, and six months of tailored programming. In five years, we have supported 28 ventures, influenced housing policy across the country, and built a community of thought leaders through public-facing programming. This year, in addition to the Housing Venture Lab accelerator, we launched the Ideas Fellowship, which will support two idea-stage founders in moving from concept to completed pilot.

THE ROLE

Terner Labs is seeking a highly motivated and organized Program Manager to drive operational excellence and impact for our Housing Venture Lab program. The Program Manager will manage the annual application process and play a crucial role in designing and implementing events and support for the selected companies. They will also be a key driver in implementing the evolution of the Housing Venture Lab program.

The Program Manager will be well-organized, a strategic thinker and a clear communicator with strong project and program management skills. They should possess strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to inspire action and hold others accountable. The ideal candidate will bring a working knowledge of the housing industry and opportunities for innovation in the space.

The Program Manager will report directly to the HVL Director and will assist in managing the HVL program team. They will also work closely with members of the Terner Labs executive team, including the Chief Strategy Officer and the Chief Investment Officer, and will collaborate frequently with Terner Labs’ Communications Manager and Operations Manager.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Management

• Under the leadership of the HVL Director, project manage the Housing Venture Lab program, including the application process, cohort onboarding, matching ventures with mentors and coaches, and ongoing improvement of program services.
• Work closely with operations team members to develop operational standards and ensure consistency.
• Project manage operational program elements, including in-person and virtual events, sub-grant and investment processing, communications with ventures and alumni, and contracting with subcontractors and coaches.
• Manage documentation of Terner Labs’ investor and partner network, seeking opportunities to further leverage this network to benefit cohort and alumni companies.
• Support a team of graduate student fellows as they recruit potential HVL applicants, conduct diligence and assist with program implementation.
• Refine and execute measurement and feedback strategies to assess the efficacy of the program.
• Identify opportunities for improvements in program design and service delivery.
• Support the HVL Director in tracking expenses, in collaboration with the Finance Manager.
• Respond to evolving priorities, including planning and executing special projects and events as needed.

DESIRED SKILL SETS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Key attributes

• Results-Oriented: Proven track record of achieving measurable results and driving operational excellence.
• Highly Organized: Skilled in developing effective systems for storing and tracking information, designing and updating project plans, and tracking progress.
• Strategic: Able to think operationally even amidst ambiguity and complexity, including being flexible and adaptable when needed.
• Collaborative: Possesses strong interpersonal and communication skills, fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and teamwork.
• Growth Mindset: Continuously seeks opportunities for improvement and innovation, embracing new challenges and learning experiences.

Technical skills

• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on these insights.
• Experience working cross-functionally, pulling together different expertise and functions to accomplish a common goal.
• Working knowledge of housing policies, practices, and innovative approaches.
• Working knowledge of start-up growth patterns, including early-stage and growth-stage companies.

Professional experience

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree is a plus.
• 4+ years of experience in a program management, strategic or operational role, preferably at either an organization working with startups or innovators or one focused on housing (including advanced degree).

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

The target salary range for this position is $95,000 to $125,000, commensurate with experience. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, disability, and mental health coverage, 18 vacation days, one sick day a month (accrues), 14 paid holidays, and the opportunity to participate in a generous retirement savings plan matching program.

This position will be located in Oakland, CA, with opportunities for a limited hybrid work schedule (up to 40% remote).

Terner Labs is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage individuals to apply who bring lived experience with issues of housing affordability and equity.