Program Manager - Japan Programs

gener8tor

3d•$80,000•Remote

About The Position

gener8tor fosters innovation ecosystems through its accelerator programs, venture capital funds, and skills-based workforce initiatives. With a strong track record of supporting high-growth companies, gener8tor has expanded across the U.S. and internationally, building partnerships with governments, corporations, universities and economic development organizations to drive entrepreneurship and economic impact. gener8tor operates accelerators across 45 cities, 25 states and 3 countries, working with more than 300 startups per year. To date, gener8tor has worked with more than 2,000 startups that have cumulatively gone on to raise more than $2.9B in financing and employ more than 14,000 people. gener8tor is a nationally ranked venture capital firm and accelerator. We run programs for startups, musicians, artists, and innovators from all walks of life. gener8tor partners with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), local governments, and ecosystem leaders in Japan to deliver multiple programs that support Japanese startups as they expand globally. We are seeking a U.S.-based, fully bilingual (Japanese/English) Program Manager to lead our Japan programming. This role is ideal for someone who can operate seamlessly across cultures, building strong relationships in Japan while being deeply embedded in the U.S. startup ecosystem. The Japan Program Manager will oversee the execution of gener8tor programs, including initiatives with partners such as JETRO and City/Prefectural government agencies. You’ll play a critical role in helping Japanese startups successfully enter and scale in international markets, particularly the United States. You’ll be responsible for recruiting and selecting startups, running accelerator programming, maintaining relationships with partners, and ensuring participating founders have every possible opportunity to succeed.

Requirements

Entrepreneurial spirit and self-starter mentality. Experience as a founder, in a venture-backed company, or in venture capital is preferred.
Deep commitment to building the startup ecosystem in Japan and supporting international expansion.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and juggle multiple projects.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills across cultures.
Fluency in both Japanese and English is required as programming will be conducted in both languages.
Flexibility to work some nights and weekends; willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
Commitment to equity across race, place, and gender.
A “no job is beneath me” mentality and willingness to roll up your sleeves.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience starting, working at, or coaching startups.
Experience with accelerator or entrepreneurship programs.
At least one year of program or product management experience.
Relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

Oversee the recruitment, logistics, and execution of multiple gener8tor programs per year.
Manage hybrid, virtual, and in-person program components (including some Japan-based events like Kickoff and Showcase, and U.S. immersion programming).
Deliver high-quality founder support through mentorship, connections, and resource sharing.
Serve as the lead mentor and coach for participating startups, providing guidance during and after each program.
Recruit and select promising startups with global ambitions.
Build and maintain strong relationships with founders, mentors, investors, corporate partners, and community leaders.
Actively engage in the startup ecosystem including attending events, speaking on panels, and connecting stakeholders.
Support alumni with ongoing introductions to mentors, sponsors, and investors.
Manage relationships with JETRO, local governments, and other program partners, providing reporting and updates as needed.
Coordinate with gener8tor’s central team to align programming, marketing, and operations with national standards.
Represent gener8tor externally to promote Japan as a hub for global entrepreneurship.