500 Global is a venture capital firm that invests early in founders building fast-growing technology companies. We focus on markets where technology, innovation, and capital can unlock long-term value and drive economic growth. We work closely with key stakeholders and advise governments and corporations on how best to support entrepreneurial ecosystems so startups can thrive.
500 Global has backed over 6,000 founders representing more than 2,600 companies operating in 81 countries. Our portfolio includes 49 companies valued at over $1 billion and 150+ companies valued at over $100 million.
Our 180+ team members are located in more than 27 countries and bring experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from some of the world’s leading technology companies. The team at 500 Global share a passion for founder-first experiences, uplifting people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship.
We know the founder journey is not easy, so we walk alongside our companies, thriving with them in good times, and holding them up in the tough ones. This is where you come in.
We’re seeking an amazing Program Director in Aichi, Japan to lead our 500 Japan programs, ensuring excellence from start to finish.
You should share our passion for uplifting people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship. You should understand a founder’s journey, both its ups and downs, and enjoy thriving in entrepreneurial creative, fast-paced environments, which can sometimes be uncertain, challenging, and intense.
You need to be both a visionary and an operator. You are an excellent communicator and you understand how to navigate between multiple stakeholders’ needs. You are also driven, smart, scrappy, and humble. Most importantly, you are excited at the prospect of joining a company of talented passionate individuals and playing your part in executing our vision to invest in the world’s potential.
You will be responsible for managing a team on the ground to drive, implement, and measure the success of our programs. You will work closely with the Regional Director of the Market Launch team, and the local Programs team to establish and grow strong relationships with great companies from day one. You will also manage strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including but not limited to founders, mentors, LPs, and other partners, uphold the quality of 500 Global’s programs, brand, and reputation, and actively build and strengthen our foothold in Aichi, and further Japan.
Across the programs, you will be responsible for driving and advising on the strategic direction and investment thesis of the program, including developing a curated team of mentors and networks for founders. The success of the programs in Japan is your responsibility.
Requirements
Experience and Skills