TEX-E
Executive Director
TEX-E - Houston, Texas, United States, 77246
Work at TEX-E
Overview
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Overview
Company Overview
TEX-E is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the next generation of climate tech entrepreneurs/intrapreneurs from top Texas universities (Rice, University of Texas, Texas A&M, University of Houston, and Prairie View A&M) and MIT.
TEX-E drives innovation in the energy and climate sector by connecting students, faculty, and industry leaders through educational programs, networking events, and mentorship opportunities. It does this in partnership with MIT and Greentown Labs. Established three years ago, its goal is to create a powerful student-driven entrepreneurship ecosystem in Texas and to connect, inspire, equip, accelerate,
and celebrate the creation of the next generation of energy transition and climate tech entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs.
TEX-E has rapidly built a strong foundation and is now seeking a visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of growth.
The Position Position Title:
Executive Director Location:
Houston, Texas Team size:
2 full-time and 6 part-time “EIRs” Entrepreneurs in Residence Reports to:
David Pruner, Executive Chair and Board of Directors
Position Summary The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the chief executive officer of TEX-E, responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, fundraising, stakeholder, and program development. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will ensure TEX-E’s mission is effectively executed while expanding its reach, impact, and financial sustainability. The ED will directly manage the
Chief of Staff
and the
Director of University Partnerships , integrating their efforts into TEX-E’s broader strategic vision and coordinate with six universities.
Responsibilities The successful candidate will lead the team and be responsible for the following: Strategic Leadership Develop and execute a strategic plan that aligns with TEX-E’s mission and goals. Oversee the growth and evolution of TEX-E’s programs, ensuring they remain impactful and relevant. Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including corporate and foundation supporters, partner universities, industry leaders, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Work closely with the Chief of Staff to establish TEX-E’s operational infrastructure and fundraising strategies. Support and align the Director of University Partnerships efforts in building strategic university partnerships and student recruitment. Work with and coordinate with TEX-E’s partners MIT and Greentown Labs Represent TEX-E as a thought leader in the climate tech and entrepreneurship ecosystem. Fundraising & Financial Management Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including corporate sponsorships and foundations, and expand into grants and individual donations. Work in collaboration with the Chief of Staff to identify, cultivate, and manage fundraising opportunities with corporate sponsors, foundations, and government agencies. Ensure the organization’s financial sustainability through prudent budgeting, financial oversight, and revenue diversification. Engage the Board of Directors in expanding funding opportunities and financial resources. Program Development & Management Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of TEX-E’s programs, including fellowships, accelerator initiatives, and educational programming. Guide and support the Director of University Partnerships in executing university-level engagement, student recruitment, and academic partnerships. Drive high application rates and engagement across all TEX-E events and initiatives. Strengthen partnerships with universities to increase student participation and program effectiveness. Ensure programmatic excellence by incorporating best practices and data-driven decision-making, leveraging AI wherever possible. Community & Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain strong relationships with Texas and MIT university students, faculty, and administration. Grow the number of universities from six to 10 by the end of the decade Support the Director of University Partnerships in integrating TEX-E into campus events, student organizations, and academic programs. Enhance TEX-E’s visibility and influence by attending and speaking at industry events, conferences, and community gatherings. Foster a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture that supports teamwork and innovation and rewards hard work. Operational & Team Leadership Manage and develop a high-performing team, including the Chief of Staff and Director of University Partnerships, to support TEX-E’s mission. Establish and maintain efficient operational systems and processes with support from the Chief of Staff. Work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure good governance and strategic oversight. Maintain compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
The Person Experience The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications: Bachelors degree required; advanced degree in business, public policy, environmental science, or related field preferred. Minimum of 10-15+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, energy, entrepreneurship, climate tech, or a related sector. Proven track record in fundraising, donor relations, and financial management. Strong leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills. Experience overseeing university engagement, marketing/communications, and fundraising operations. Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Excellent communication and public speaking skills. Passion for innovation, climate tech, entrepreneurship, students, and fostering innovation.
TEX-E drives innovation in the energy and climate sector by connecting students, faculty, and industry leaders through educational programs, networking events, and mentorship opportunities. It does this in partnership with MIT and Greentown Labs. Established three years ago, its goal is to create a powerful student-driven entrepreneurship ecosystem in Texas and to connect, inspire, equip, accelerate,
and celebrate the creation of the next generation of energy transition and climate tech entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs.
TEX-E has rapidly built a strong foundation and is now seeking a visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of growth.
The Position Position Title:
Executive Director Location:
Houston, Texas Team size:
2 full-time and 6 part-time “EIRs” Entrepreneurs in Residence Reports to:
David Pruner, Executive Chair and Board of Directors
Position Summary The Executive Director (ED) will serve as the chief executive officer of TEX-E, responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, fundraising, stakeholder, and program development. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will ensure TEX-E’s mission is effectively executed while expanding its reach, impact, and financial sustainability. The ED will directly manage the
Chief of Staff
and the
Director of University Partnerships , integrating their efforts into TEX-E’s broader strategic vision and coordinate with six universities.
Responsibilities The successful candidate will lead the team and be responsible for the following: Strategic Leadership Develop and execute a strategic plan that aligns with TEX-E’s mission and goals. Oversee the growth and evolution of TEX-E’s programs, ensuring they remain impactful and relevant. Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including corporate and foundation supporters, partner universities, industry leaders, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Work closely with the Chief of Staff to establish TEX-E’s operational infrastructure and fundraising strategies. Support and align the Director of University Partnerships efforts in building strategic university partnerships and student recruitment. Work with and coordinate with TEX-E’s partners MIT and Greentown Labs Represent TEX-E as a thought leader in the climate tech and entrepreneurship ecosystem. Fundraising & Financial Management Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including corporate sponsorships and foundations, and expand into grants and individual donations. Work in collaboration with the Chief of Staff to identify, cultivate, and manage fundraising opportunities with corporate sponsors, foundations, and government agencies. Ensure the organization’s financial sustainability through prudent budgeting, financial oversight, and revenue diversification. Engage the Board of Directors in expanding funding opportunities and financial resources. Program Development & Management Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of TEX-E’s programs, including fellowships, accelerator initiatives, and educational programming. Guide and support the Director of University Partnerships in executing university-level engagement, student recruitment, and academic partnerships. Drive high application rates and engagement across all TEX-E events and initiatives. Strengthen partnerships with universities to increase student participation and program effectiveness. Ensure programmatic excellence by incorporating best practices and data-driven decision-making, leveraging AI wherever possible. Community & Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain strong relationships with Texas and MIT university students, faculty, and administration. Grow the number of universities from six to 10 by the end of the decade Support the Director of University Partnerships in integrating TEX-E into campus events, student organizations, and academic programs. Enhance TEX-E’s visibility and influence by attending and speaking at industry events, conferences, and community gatherings. Foster a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture that supports teamwork and innovation and rewards hard work. Operational & Team Leadership Manage and develop a high-performing team, including the Chief of Staff and Director of University Partnerships, to support TEX-E’s mission. Establish and maintain efficient operational systems and processes with support from the Chief of Staff. Work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure good governance and strategic oversight. Maintain compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
The Person Experience The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications: Bachelors degree required; advanced degree in business, public policy, environmental science, or related field preferred. Minimum of 10-15+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, energy, entrepreneurship, climate tech, or a related sector. Proven track record in fundraising, donor relations, and financial management. Strong leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills. Experience overseeing university engagement, marketing/communications, and fundraising operations. Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Excellent communication and public speaking skills. Passion for innovation, climate tech, entrepreneurship, students, and fostering innovation.