POSITION TITLE: Director, US Entrepreneurship LOCATION: Northwest Arkansas UNIT: US Programs BACKGROUND: Building on the legacy of Winrock’s founder, Governor Winthrop Rockefeller, and his clear and enduring vision of economic transformation for Arkansas, Winrock International’s US Programs team has prioritized entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial ecosystem development & investment into the region. For over a decade, Winrock has led extensive implementation of projects aimed at rural and community development, as well as a broad and innovative portfolio of entrepreneurship projects. These include the Arkansas Women’s Business Center, state level business incubators and accelerators, and investments into local and regional business development, managed in deep collaboration with philanthropic, state, and regional funders.

Winrock aims to further develop our entrepreneurship ecosystem support and offerings, growing our role as a backbone organization to support investment and economic development across the Delta region. With the starting point being our home state of Arkansas, we are looking for a locally based leader to join our team to lead a new chapter of Winrock’s entrepreneurship offerings. We are seeking a visionary, seasoned, and passionate leader, with a deep interest in seeing the Delta region grow and thrive, to join us as Winrock’s new Director for US Entrepreneurship.

S. Programs, the Director of US Entrepreneurship leads the entrepreneurship and economic development strategy for US Programs’ Entrepreneurship team, including technical direction, program and staff management, and compliance oversight. The role provides programmatic direction, represents US Programs and Winrock externally, upholds organizational values, and develops the team’s new business strategy in partnership with the Senior Director and organizational counterparts.

DESCRIPTION: Programmatic Leadership & Strategy Provide strategic direction to advance entrepreneurship programming in the Delta region, with a particular focus on Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, as well as Alabama, Tennessee, and Missouri. Guide the entrepreneurship team in crafting an updated value proposition, leveraging Winrock’s wins and successes to date, while identifying new opportunities for impact in the communities we serve. Champion innovation, systems learning, and collaboration to drive field leadership and impact.

Integrate data, outcomes, and partner feedback into continuous program and strategy improvement. Funder Engagement & Funding Development Lead a robust, diversified fundraising and partnership strategy to sustain and grow US entrepreneurship work, with a specific emphasis on the Delta region. Cultivate strong relationships with foundations, government agencies, donors, and strategic partners.

Engage staff in new business development, grant design, and partnership cultivation. Lead concept development into competitive proposal design. Oversee timely, compelling proposals, reports, and donor communications that reflect the Center’s and Winrock’ vision and results.

Financial Oversight Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and monitoring to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Track performance and financial health, ensuring accountability to funders, partners, and Winrock. Team Supervising & Coaching Provide inclusive, inspiring leadership that aligns staff around Winrock’s mission and strategic priorities.

Recruit, mentor, and develop a diverse and high-performing team within a human-centered, collaborative culture. Foster teamwork, accountability, and professional fulfillment through clear communication, coaching, and shared purpose. Ensure operational quality, staff development, and risk management across programs.