Program Manager - Central Valley Programs

About Defy Ventures

Defy Ventures is an entrepreneurship, employment, and personal development training program that recognizes the potential in many formerly and currently incarcerated people to become successful, legal entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs-in-Training (EITs) “defy the odds” through our program which includes intensive leadership development, Shark Tank-style business pitch competitions, and executive mentoring. We build a redemptive, authentic community between EITs and our executive volunteers as they bond in their humanity through their collaboration along the entrepreneurial journey.

Defy Ventures is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Position Summary

We’re looking for a mission-driven Program Manager to lead and deliver our CEO of Your New Life program inside three Central Valley correctional facilities, while also supporting returning EITs after release. Based in the Fresno area, the Program Manager will facilitate in-prison programming, manage relationships with correctional staff, and and provide case management support to returning citizens as they pursue their personal and professional goals.

This is a great opportunity for someone with a background in education, workforce development, social services, or entrepreneurship—especially someone comfortable in diverse, justice-impacted environments.

Key Responsibilities

Program Delivery & Facilitation

• Facilitate Defy's prison program at up to 3 institutions: Valley State Prison, Central California Women’s Facility, and Avenal State Prison
• Lead workshops and group sessions (may include evenings/weekends)
• Coordinate logistics for prison events (e.g., coaching days, business pitch competitions)
• Track and input data into Defy’s internal systems
• Other Duties as assigned

Post-Release Support

• Serve as the main point of contact for EITs returning to the Central Valley
• Provide reentry coaching, case management, and referrals for services
• Help EITs overcome barriers to employment and stability

Partnership & Volunteer Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with CDCR staff and community partners
• Represent Defy in the Fresno area and help grow our volunteer and partner base

Qualifications

• Strong facilitation, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills
• Experience in education, program coordination, social services, or related fields
• Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Self-starter with a collaborative, team-focused mindset
• Reliable transportation and valid driver's license (regular local travel required)
• Must pass CDCR clearance for facility access
• Able to lift 15 pounds

Preferred but not required:

• Experience working in or with correctional systems
• Lived experience in the criminal justice system
• Existing volunteer clearance (brown card) at CDCR facilities

Language Requirements:

• English – Required: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Spanish – Preferred but not required: Conversational or higher proficiency is a plus, especially for engaging with participants, families, or community partners in Central California.