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Techstars

Operations Associate, Founder Catalyst (UK)

2d ago
Europe
Techstars

Operations Associate, Founder Catalyst (UK)

2d ago
Europelinkedincommunity networks

Support delivery and talent acquisition for a mobility-focused pre-accelerator program, ensuring operational efficiency and founder sourcing.

Conditions

  • 40,000 - 50,000 GBP per year

Other

  • Techstars is seeking a UK-based Operations Associate to support the delivery of a mobility focused 10-week hybrid pre-accelerator running across three annual cohorts. During quieter periods between cohorts, the Operations Associate will also be expected to support other Techstars programs across Europe and the US.
  • The Operations Associate will act as a critical engine for both program delivery and top-of-funnel talent acquisition across Europe’s mobility ecosystem. Working closely with Program Manager and partner teams, this role ensures operational efficiency, accuracy, and a high-quality experience for founders, mentors, and partners.
  • A prominent focus of this role will be founder sourcing-proactively identifying, mapping, and engaging early-stage startups to build a diverse, high-caliber applicant pipeline. This role is detail-oriented, fast-paced, and customer-facing, requiring a blend of ecosystem sourcing expertise and sharp operational execution.
  • Proactive Sourcing & Talent Mapping: Actively scout, research, and map early-stage startups and high-potential founders within the designated ecosystems.
  • Outbound Engagement: Execute outbound sourcing strategies (via LinkedIn, ecosystem databases, events, and community networks etc) to generate high-quality applications for the Founder Catalyst programs.
  • Pipeline Management: Manage and monitor the application funnel within our tracking systems, ensuring seamless data capture, candidate tracking.
  • Coordinate program schedules, calendars, and deliverables, ensuring all activities are executed on time.
  • Support onboarding of founders, mentors, speakers, and facilitators for program sessions.
  • Manage program logistics, materials, and platform setups.
  • Support Demo Day logistics and in-person program components.
  • Track and maintain program contributor databases for future collaboration.
  • Assist in identifying, contacting, and scheduling speakers, mentors, and facilitators.
  • Ensure all stakeholders have the necessary information and resources for program involvement.
  • Maintain clear communication with founders, partners, and internal stakeholders to keep them informed and engaged.
  • Provide day-to-day operational and administrative support to Program Managers and Program Leads.
  • Maintain accurate program documentation, including participant records, session notes, and feedback.
  • Ensure operational processes are followed consistently and efficiently.
  • Collect and organize feedback from program participants and stakeholders and support continuous process improvement, and operational efficiency to enhance program quality and experience.
  • Partner with AIT and Startup Community Central Teams on day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.
  • Contribute to cross-program efforts (within Startup Community and AIT) aligned with evolving organizational priorities.
  • Engage with global peers to share best practices and strengthen program quality across regions.
  • Participate in company-wide meetings, planning cycles, and team initiatives as required.
  • Based in the UK, with the flexibility to support programmes across European and US time zones.
  • 1–3 years of experience in recruitment sourcing, talent acquisition, venture capital pipeline coordination, or program operations within fast-paced environments (startups, technology, entrepreneurship, or VC).
  • Proven experience in sourcing is preferable: Demonstrated ability to proactively search for, identify, and engage talent or early-stage founders using advanced research and outbound outreach techniques.
  • Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with comfort pitching Techstars programs to external founders.
  • High attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
  • Experience coordinating events, mentors, speakers, or program logistics.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with evolving priorities.
  • Collaborative and service-oriented, with a passion for supporting founders and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
  • Familiarity with productivity and tracking tools (Google Workspace, CRM platforms like HubSpot/Salesforce, Airtable, or ATS/AMS platforms).
  • Bonus: Interest in exposure to the mobility, cleantech, or sustainability sectors and familiarity with European startup ecosystems
  • Techstars helps entrepreneurs succeed through a global network of mentors, investors, corporations, and cities. Founded in 2006, Techstars operates accelerator programs and venture capital funds while supporting the development of thriving startup communities worldwide.
  • Techstars has invested in more than 2,700 companies with a combined market cap valuation exceeding $52B.
  • Learn more at www.techstars.com
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