Sobus Insight Forum - Community Innovation Manager

Community Innovation Manager

Atal Community Innovation Centre (SVERI - Sobus) Pandharpur is looking for a driven and community-focused professional to help anchor innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives in the region. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with early-stage innovators, can manage a wide range of operational responsibilities, and is comfortable taking charge when required.

As part of the core team, you will work closely with the CEO to strengthen the center's programs, support startups, build partnerships, and ensure smooth execution of day-to-day activities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic & Operational Support

- Work closely with the CEO on overall planning and management of the ACIC.

- Assist in fundraising, proposal development, donor communication, and partnerships.

- Step in to manage all center operations independently during the CEO's absence.

2. Startup & Innovator Support

- Provide first-level support to early-stage innovators and startups on problem validation, prototyping, business modelling, and market linkages.

- Coordinate mentoring sessions, workshops, and expert interactions.

- Track progress, maintain documentation, and support cohort-wise program activities.

3. Program & Centre Management

- Plan and execute all ACIC programs, community engagements, and innovation events.

- Liaise with institutions, local ecosystem partners and government stakeholders.

- Maintain daily operations including infrastructure readiness, scheduling, logistics and reporting.

4. Communication, Marketing & Design

- Lead branding and visibility efforts for ACIC programs and success stories.

- Manage social media updates, event creatives, and outreach collateral.

- Ensure consistent communication with community partners and internal teams.

Ideal Candidate Profile

- 2-5 years of experience in program management, incubation, social innovation, entrepreneurship support, rural development, or related fields.

- Strong ability to engage with students, youth, community members, and local entrepreneurs.

- Comfort with multitasking and taking ownership in a dynamic environment.

- Skills in marketing, design, communication, or digital storytelling are a strong plus.

- Ability to think structurally, maintain documentation, and drive operational discipline.

- Fluency in English and Marathi (preferred)

Who This Role Is For

Someone who:

- Can work hands-on in a semi-urban environment

- Enjoys enabling young innovators

- Is comfortable balancing strategic tasks with on-ground operations

= Wants to play a meaningful role in grassroots entrepreneurship