Logo
SeaAhead

Program Manager

SeaAhead, Cambridge, Massachusetts, us, 02140

Save Job

SeaAheadis a Cambridge, MA-based public benefit corporation with the mission of supporting venture innovation for the ocean and ocean-related industries through accelerator programs, venture studio relationships, and investments.

Our ecosystem includes technologists, scientists, startups, foundations, corporations, governments,investorsand other ocean stakeholders who come together to scale solutionsand, in the process,generatepositive environmental,socialand economic impact.

Our focus areas includeshipping and ports, aquaculture and fisheries,oceanintelligence,dual-use defense technologies,offshore renewable energy, scalable solutions to ocean pollution, and ocean-centric approaches to the challenges of climate changeincluding coastalresilience andinsurancetechnologies.

Startups are developing solutions to an array of intersectional challenges across theblueeconomy and can play a key role in building effective, competitive, and responsible ocean-based industries. However, it is often difficult for startups to gain traction in the market, as stakeholders and supply chains can be hesitant to adopt and rely on innovations withouta track recordof implementation.

As a comprehensivebluetechopen innovation platform,SeaAheadserves as a bridge between startups and corporations, investors, government agencies, research institutions, and non-profits that are seeking innovative solutions to challenges in the Blue Economy and marine ecosystems.

SeaAhead's Accelerator Programs SeaAheadruns two accelerators designed for startups at twodifferent stages.

BlueSwellisSeaAhead’soldest program. Built for early-stagebluetechstartups,BlueSwellaccepts founders who are ready to commercialize their tech or product and share our commitment to ocean impact. The program is built to help founders convert their ocean-focused concepts into profitable and sustainable businesses. Workshops cover core topics such as product-market fit, capital formation, branding, team building, and governance.SeaAheadwill begin working withBlueSwell’ssixth cohort of startups in January 2026.

SeaAheadis also launching a new later-stage program for startups that are ready to starttesting (“piloting”)their products with real-world customers. The program will teach startups how to prepareforand constructpaidpilot projects, and theSeaAheadteam will also act as a matchmaker between startups and customers. This program will run for the first time starting in January2026.

Both programs have carefully constructedcontentand provide access to potential customers, investors, and partners fromSeaAhead'sbroad and deep blue economy ecosystem.

Position Overview We are seeking a Program Manager to play a pivotal role in scalingSeaAhead'simpact as we expand ourBlueSwellaccelerator program and launch our second initiative, SeaAhead Pilot. In this position, you will own the operations of both programs from development through implementation, directly contributing to the growth of innovative startups that are shaping the future of the blue economy.

This is a cross-functional role where you will work collaboratively across the organization, manage semester-based interns, and representSeaAheadwithin the broader marine technology and sustainability ecosystem.

Core Responsibilities BlueSwell Operations & Expansion

Support the development and rollout ofadditionalprogram modules to enhance theBlueSwellaccelerator experience

Collaborate with program leadership to ensure seamless onboarding and ongoing support forBlueSwellparticipants and interns

Design, implement, and refine systems for tracking participant feedback and program outcomes to drive continuous improvement

Build and strengthen the startup pipeline through targeted marketing initiatives and strategic partner engagement

Pilot Program Development & Operations

Lead the refinement and execution of theSeaAheadPilot program framework, ensuring alignment withSeaAhead'sstrategicobjectivesand partner needs

Support the onboarding of strategic partners and corporate sponsors to advance program initiatives

Develop templates, processes, and operational systems for sustainable program management and scalability

Business Development & Stakeholder Engagement

RepresentSeaAheadat industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to expand partnerships and enhance organizational visibility

Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders across the blue economy tohelpourleadership teamsecure funding and unlock collaboration opportunities forSeaAhead'sprograms

Recruit, onboard, and manage semester-based interns who support program operations

Provide mentorship and guidance to ensure intern success and program contribution

Qualifications Required

Experiencein program management, operations, or related field

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously with strong attention to detail

Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills

Strong written and verbal communication abilities

Passion for ocean conservation, sustainability, and supporting entrepreneurship in the blue economy

Self-directed work style with ability to take initiative and work independently

Preferred

Demonstrated interestin startup ecosystems, accelerators, or venture support programs

Business development or fundraising experience

Event planning and execution experience

Salary Range $65,000-75,000

Health and dental insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield (SeaAheadcovers50% of premium for reference plan)

Employer-paid long-term disability insurance

Voluntary insurance options including vision, life, and short-term disability

Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Dependent Care Account (DCA), and transit/commuter benefits

Retirement

401(k) plan with employer match (eligible after one month of employment)

Additional Information

Flexible work environment with three days in-person at the office per week

This is an exempt position with no associated overtime pay

Employment is contingent upon signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement and acknowledging receipt ofSeaAhead'sEmployee Handbook

Complete benefits details, holiday schedule, and vacation policies are available in the Employee Handbook

How to Apply Please fill out the application form here: https://airtable.com/appO0qqhXijij4s9b/pagIuxZrmYNoq4p8i/form

SeaAheadis an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

#J-18808-Ljbffr