Program Manager

Start2 Group seeks a dynamic Program Manager to execute our U.S. Startup Programs. The ideal candidate will have a decent understanding of the U.S. startup ecosystem, as well as the broad challenges that international companies face when entering the market. This role requires a strategic thinker and effective leader who can develop and execute programs that provide hands-on support, mentorship, and access to networks, ensuring the success of international startups in the U.S.

Location: Offices in Silicon Valley/Palo Alto, CA

Job Function: Full-time

Start: Immediately

Compensation: range; Commensurate with job experience

Responsibilities Include:

• Program Design & Execution:
• Lead the design, development, and execution of programs that help international startups expand into the U.S. market
• Ensure our programs run smoothly, efficiently, on time and on target for our ambitious agenda
• Create and implement frameworks for program delivery, including workshops, networking events, mentorship, and accelerator-style initiatives
• Collaborate with industry experts, mentors, and partners to ensure programs meet the needs of participating startups
• Create and constantly improve our customized activities, workshops, and events for each startup or cohort

• Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Building:
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including venture capital firms, government agencies, corporate partners, and U.S.-based accelerators/incubators
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration across all internal teams, including marketing, operations etc, to align program goals and execution strategies
• Regularly coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of critical information, ensuring that program updates, participant feedback, and performance metrics are communicated clearly and consistently across departments
• Establish processes for seamless information flow, leveraging digital tools and meetings to ensure that all teams are informed, aligned, and able to contribute to the success of the program
• Support business development initiatives to drive both growth and value for the company
• Identify suitable local U.S. ecosystem players that can provide startups with access to necessary resources (e.g. legal, financial, and operational guidance)

• Mentorship & Advisory Support:
• Assess the pipeline of startups poised for growth, their fit within the U.S. program, and identify synergies with other internal teams and locations
• Facilitate exceptional support of portfolio companies and ensure the continuous development of our U.S. programs (excluding Life Sciences)
• Identify and connect startups with a network of mentors and advisors with expertise in scaling businesses in the U.S. market
• Provide select mentorship to portfolio companies

• Program Evaluation & Improvement:
• Continuously assess program effectiveness through participant feedback and measurable outcomes
• Adjust and improve program offerings to meet the evolving needs of startups entering the U.S. market

• Team Leadership & Management:
• Lead project teams to execute programs and strategic initiatives
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, empowering team members to innovate and contribute to program success

What you will bring to the role:

• Strategic Leadership:
• Proven experience in leading programs that support startup growth, particularly in international expansion or scaling efforts
• Strong ability to design and implement scalable programs that align with the mission and goals of helping startups succeed in new markets

• U.S. Market Expertise:
• Deep understanding of the U.S. startup ecosystem, including fundraising, legal, regulatory, and operational considerations for international companies
• Experience working with or advising international startups is a plu

• Cross-Cultural Competence:
• Strong awareness of cultural and business differences that impact the success of international entrepreneurs entering the U.S.
• Ability to navigate and communicate effectively across diverse cultures and backgrounds

• Team Leadership:
• A collaborative team player with experience leading and managing teams in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire teams to meet and exceed program goals

• Stakeholder Management & Networking:
• Strong network within the U.S. startup ecosystem, including investors, mentors, corporate partners, and other key stakeholders
• Experience building partnerships with external organizations to enhance program offerings and resources

• Operational & Financial Acumen:
• Proven ability to manage program budgets and ensure effective allocation of resources
• Strong operational skills, with the ability to oversee multiple programs and initiatives simultaneously

The Ideal Candidate:

• 3+ years of experience in program management, entrepreneurship, ideally with a focus on international startups or scaling businesses
• Demonstrated expertise in the U.S. startup ecosystem and understanding of the challenges faced by international companies entering the market
• Knowledgeable in market entry strategies, corporate strategy, or consulting
• Experience running your own startup/ entrepreneurial projects
• Previously worked for an international/ global organization or company and are able to effectively communicate from a global perspective
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• A strong passion for entrepreneurship and innovation
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, as needed.
• Fluent in English, additional languages a plus but not necessary

What We Offer:

• An exciting international work environment with many opportunities to learn and grow
• An open-minded and motivated team that masters tasks together and relies on excellent performance, team playing, and humor
• Opportunity to work independently with plenty of creative freedom, openness, and space for new ideas, impulses, and methods
• A small team where everyone has the opportunity to lead projects and a voice to bring new ideas to the table
• Diverse tasks that create impact within the global startup and innovation world
• Competitive benefits, including 100% employer-paid healthcare and 401k options

How To Apply:

Please submit your application via email by October 13, 2024, to the address below. In addition to providing your resume, please include a one-page cover letter in which you tell us about yourself, why you want to work at Start2 Group, and why you are a match for this position.

Contact:

Katrina Marsters, Operations Manager, Start2 Group, Inc.

1 Broadway, 14th floor | Cambridge, MA 02142

Email: katrina.marsters@start2.group

About Start2 Group:

Start2 Group is a global powerhouse taking your startup journey to the next level.

As a premier international innovation platform, we serve as the ultimate destination for growth-oriented startups, corporations, and governments to shape and scale purpose-driven ventures.

Founded in 2008, Start2 Group has consistently played a pivotal role in the success stories of 1600+ of startups, guiding them seamlessly from initial fundraising to global expansion. Our influence spans key markets across Europe, the America, Asia, and the Middle East, shaping the future of innovation on a global scale.

Join us in fostering purpose-driven innovation across borders.

EEO Statement:

Start2 Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and by embracing diverse skills, perspectives, and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, medical condition, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law.