Project Director

The Project Director position based in Sialkot offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape the National Incubation Center (NIC) Sialkot as a premier innovation hub. This role focuses on supporting the region’s export-manufacturing and e-commerce sectors, including sports goods, surgical instruments, leather, light engineering, and cross-border e-commerce. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving strategic initiatives, managing incubation programs, and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem to accelerate startup growth and regional economic development.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy:
Provide strategic direction to establish NIC Sialkot as a leading innovation hub. Design and implement tailored incubation programs, mentorship frameworks, and startup support initiatives aligned with local industry needs. Develop annual plans, set performance metrics, and establish reporting systems to measure impact. Assist in policy development and ensure compliance with funding contracts and performance goals.

Startup Support & Development:
Mentor startups on business development, fundraising, technology adoption, and scaling strategies. Facilitate access to critical resources, industry networks, and technical expertise. Oversee the delivery of training programs, workshops, and bootcamps aimed at accelerating startup growth and sustainability.

Program Management & Operations:
Manage day-to-day operations to ensure smooth execution of incubation programs, events, and marketing activities. Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial reporting in line with program requirements. Plan and develop the incubator’s budget, ensuring efficient fund management. Maintain a modern, collaborative workspace and ensure compliance with reporting standards, including engagement with IGNITE for timely release of funds.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement:
Build and maintain strong relationships with investors, industry leaders, academia, government agencies, and innovators. Engage potential funding sources through professional networks and associations. Lead outreach efforts to attract promising startups and founders. Maintain a comprehensive database of industry contacts and prepare periodic progress reports. Represent NIC Sialkot at local, national, and international forums to promote its initiatives and opportunities.

Community Building & Ecosystem Development:
Cultivate a dynamic entrepreneurial community connected to the broader innovation ecosystem. Coordinate with business service providers to strengthen the regional startup support network. Organize and participate in events such as hackathons, networking sessions, and knowledge-sharing forums. Advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of economic growth and contribute to the region’s overall economic development through innovative interventions.

Required Qualifications
- Proven experience in leadership roles within incubation, startup acceleration, or innovation hubs.
- Strong strategic planning and program management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor startups and facilitate business growth.
- Experience managing budgets, resources, and compliance with funding requirements.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and partnership-building capabilities.
- Familiarity with the regional export-manufacturing and e-commerce sectors is highly desirable.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
- Background in entrepreneurship, business development, or technology sectors.
- Established network within industry, academia, government, and investment communities.
- Experience working with government-funded programs or innovation grants.
- Opportunity to lead a high-impact initiative contributing to regional economic growth.
- Collaborative work environment focused on innovation and community development.

This role is ideal for a visionary leader passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in a dynamic regional context. Candidates interested in this opportunity are encouraged to apply with a detailed resume highlighting relevant experience and achievements.