Open Innovation Manager

WHO WE ARE:

Plug and Play Tech Center is the ultimate innovation platform, bringing together the best startups and the world’s largest corporations to create the most meaningful connections that bring innovation to anyone, anywhere. We are on a mission to bring the benefits of Silicon Valley to all corners of the world. Each year, hundreds of entrepreneurs join our vertical-specific accelerator programs to team up with our corporate members or receive a direct investment from Plug and Play. Plug and Play has over 45 locations across the world and our corporate members include: Daimler, Prologis, PG&E, Nissan, Volvo, BP, Walmart, Nokia, Coca Cola, Doosan Bobcat, and over 500 more. Plug and Play’s corporate members utilize Plug and Play to identify the best startups to meet their challenges. Plug and Play’s proven investment track record includes Honey, Dropbox, Lending Club, Kustomer, Einride, and many more. 

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

 The Manager will independently design, plan, and execute the full lifecycle of startup accelerator programs and medium-scale events. This role combines strategic program design with hands-on operational excellence to ensure high-quality delivery across the global Plug and Play landscape

HOW YOU’LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

Program Strategy & Design

• Design, run, and continuously improve accelerator and innovation programs across different regions.


• Build and evolve global methodologies for how programs are executed and measured to enable scalability.


• Support the launch of new locations and programs in collaboration with local teams.


• Build and manage strong relationships with mentors, investors, and corporate partners

Event & Financial Management

• Independently manage small to medium-scale events, developing detailed proposals and production schedules.


• Estimate costs, track expenses, create Purchase Orders (POs), and strictly adhere to approved financial limits.


• Source and negotiate with vendors to ensure competitive pricing and high-quality standards (A/V, F&B, etc.).
  
  

Startup Mentorship & Logistics

• Act as a mentor for startups, helping teams mature and succeed within the program.


• Manage event layouts, signage, and speaker logistics to create a cohesive attendee experience.


• Ensure all program elements align with brand standards and company policies

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.


• Experience: 5+ years managing events, accelerators, or complex projects in the tech/B2B space.


• Languages: Advanced English is essential; additional languages are a plus.


• Travel: Willingness to travel regularly across different regions.

 Strategy & Design
●
Design, run, and continuously improve accelerator and innovation programs across
different regions.
●
Build and evolve global methodologies for how programs are executed and
measured to enable scalability.
●
Support the launch of new locations and programs in collaboration with local teams.
●
Build and manage strong relationships with mentors, investors, and corporate
partners
Event & Financial Management
●
Independently manage small to medium-scale events, developing detailed proposals
and production schedules.
●
Estimate costs, track expenses, create Purchase Orders (POs), and strictly adhere to
approved financial limits.
●
Source and negotiate with vendors to ensure competitive pricing and high-quality
standards (A/V, F&B, etc.).
Startup Mentorship & Logistics
●
Act as a mentor for startups, helping teams mature and succeed within the program.
●
Manage event layouts, signage, and speaker logistics to create a cohesive attendee
experience.
●
Ensure all program elements align with brand standards and company policies