Power Moves: a promotion, a hire and a succession

What will the 1776 community look like after its merger with Benjamin’s Desk?

Helping shape that future is now part of Tamra Thompson’s job, formerly Director of Startup Engagement at Benjamin’s Desk, who kicked off 2018 as Senior Director of Programming. The 31-year-old will remain Philly-based, but will travel to the company’s other locations in the Northeast.

“It’s my aim to build on the foundation laid here to create the strongest and most robust network of entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and partners across the Northeast Corridor,” said Thompson. “I will work to create opportunities for 1776 members to connect seamlessly to the resources they need to grow and scale their business.”

Slowly, pieces have been falling into place since the merger between the two organizations was officially announced in October. Shortly after the news broke, Benjamin’s Desk announced a $1.2 million Series A. All told, the company manages some 200,000 square feet, following the shuttering of its Brooklyn space, and ahead of the opening of a larger space inside flashy Navy Yard development Building 77.

Thompson hopes to leverage the regional connections of the 1776 network to help entrepreneurs grow and scale.

“I hope to be that connector that allows each of our communities and the new members to thrive,” said Thompson.

###

Girl Develop It has named a second chapter leader for Philly. Last Summer, the national nonprofit put EPAM developer Jen Dionisio at the local helm following the departure of Elise Wei. Suzie Nieman, technical project manager and GDI instructor, was appointed this week.

“In 2018, priorities include expanding our venue partnerships in order to offer more classes, getting the community more involved through additional volunteer opportunities, diversifying the communities we reach with our classes, and continuing to streamline operations internally,” said Nieman, who works with digital strategy firm Four Kitchens.

We're thrilled to announce that @suzienieman has become a #gdiphilly Chapter Leader. Help us wish her the mightiest of congratulations today! Thanks for all your hard work, Suzie! pic.twitter.com/516xtOPDIv

— GirlDevelopIt Philly (@gdiphilly) January 9, 2018

###

Inquirer scribe Joe DiStefano reports a shift in the force at Wayne-based Evolve IP: founder Tom Gravina is stepping down as CEO of the cloud services company.

Guy Fardone, president and founding partner, will take over as chief exec, while Gravina will be staying on as chairman of the company’s board.

Boston-based venture firm Great Hill Partners made a major investment in Evolve IP in 2016, a capital infusion the company has used to grow both organically and through acquisitions like that of King of Prussia, Pa.-based Xtium and Jersey-based Clearlogin.