An exciting opportunity has opened within the Investor & Startup Programs team for a Senior Startup Program Manager on a contractor basis. This is a senior, execution-focused role for an experienced program operator who can build and deliver startup programs with minimal oversight from initial curation through to on-ground execution across multiple events within the ISP portfolio.
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Key Responsibilities
Startup Program Strategy & Curation
- Lead the end-to-end startup programme for assigned events, from positioning and outreach strategy through to final selection and onboarding.
- Define and implement vetting frameworks appropriate to each event's audience and sector focus.
- Manage and own the full startup application pipeline, including inbound applications, partner referrals and proactive outreach to relevant startup communities.
- Work with internal stakeholders to align startup selection criteria, priorities and sector mandates per event.
- Curate the show-floor startup mix with the commercial team to ensure strong geographic diversity, sector representation and commercial quality.
Programming
- Design and deliver pre-event programming for selected startups covering pitching skills, matchmaking strategy, show-floor optimisation, and relevant sector insights.
- Coordinate special programme elements — such as Startup Clinics and Founders Bootcamp sessions — managing speakers, agenda, and attendee experience.
- Build and maintain startup onboarding documentation, guides, and communication sequences.
- Support the startup confirmation process including floor plan allocation and logistics briefings.
- Oversee concierge introductions and matchmaking zone coordination for startups onsite.
- Manage on-ground startup clinics, pitch sessions, and any competition-related programming for assigned events.
- Coordinate with Operations, Production, and Design teams to ensure a seamless startup zone build and experience.
Reporting, Data & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain accurate startup data across internal management tools and platforms throughout the programme lifecycle.
- Track and report programme KPIs including application volume, selection rate, NPS, matchmaking meetings, and investment conversations initiated.
- Conduct post-event debriefs to identify improvements for future editions.
- Track and follow up with startups to capture investment outcomes, business milestones, and success stories from the programme.
- Contribute to the development of the concept note to enhance programme quality for future editions.
Qualifications
- 4–5 years of experience in startup programme management, accelerator operations or ecosystem programme delivery.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex programmes across multiple stakeholders and events.
- Strong understanding of the startup and venture capital ecosystem. Sector knowledge in cybersecurity, gaming or technology is a significant advantage.
- Experience working across international markets; MENA exposure preferred.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship management skills.
- Highly organised and execution-focused, comfortable managing timelines and delivery under pressure.
- Strong written English is mandatory; Arabic is an advantage.
- Comfortable working with data management tools.
Work Conditions
This is a Freelancer, fixed-term role. It can be performed remotely. We are not able to provide relocation or sponsorship support with the position.
