Program Associate, Japan

About 500 Global

500 Global is a venture capital firm with over $2.2B in assets under management that invests 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 5,000 founders representing more than 3,000+ companies operating in 80+ countries. We have invested in 35+ companies valued at over $1B and 160+ companies valued at over $100M (including private, public, and exited companies). Our 180+ team members are located in 27 countries and bring experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from some of the world’s leading technology companies.

Job Scope

We are seeking a Program Associate to join our Japan team in Tokyo, where you will play a key role in supporting the delivery of accelerator programs, ecosystem initiatives, and events. In this role, you will coordinate activities before, during, and after programs, while working closely with founders, mentors, partners, and vendors to ensure seamless execution and a positive participant experience. You will also support community engagement, manage logistics, and contribute to event planning, all while thriving in a fast-paced environment and balancing multiple priorities. This is a full-time role based in Tokyo, offered initially as a one-year contract with potential for renewal.

Essential Functions

• Participate in regular syncs with the Japan and global program teams
• Conduct outreach and assist with recruiting startups for programs
• Serve as a point of contact for applicants, answering questions in both English and Japanese
• Coordinate mentor and founder sessions, including scheduling and logistics for Office Hours
• Plan and execute in-person and virtual events, from social gatherings to Demo Days
• Manage event logistics including vendors, venues, catering, A/V, and other suppliers
• Support daily operations of programs, including communications and participant engagement
• Draft and distribute program updates, reminders, and announcements
• Maintain internal tools and documentation for reporting and visibility
• Assist with preparation and on-site delivery of Demo Days and other major events
• Provide operational support to local and global teams as needed
• Travel domestically and internationally for programs and events when required

Minimum Qualifications

• Excellent written and stress-free verbal communication skills in English
• Native-level proficiency in spoken and written Japanese
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new challenges
• Self-starter with strong prioritization and time management abilities
• Comfortable working under pressure in a dynamic, fast-changing environment
• Passion for startups and entrepreneurship
• Ability to collaborate with global teams across multiple time zones
• Legal authorization to work in Tokyo, Japan

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working internationally or in cross-cultural environments
• Familiarity with the Japanese startup and venture capital ecosystem
• Background in coordinating large-scale events and managing vendors
• Prior exposure to accelerator programs or founder support initiatives

This is a comprehensive job description assembled from the Lever posting for 500 Global Program Associate in Tokyo.