The Venture Specialist will lead the sourcing, evaluation, and execution of strategic venture investments across the U.S. West Coast startup ecosystem for a global automotive company.
This role focuses on early- and growth-stage startups in deep tech, mobility, robotics/AI, and sustainability. The ideal candidate brings strong judgment, execution skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional, and global environment.
The position level will be aligned with the candidate’s experience, with an opportunity for a Venture Lead title based on qualifications.
Key Responsibilities
Deal Sourcing & Investment Execution
- Generate relevant deal flow through venture platforms (e.g., PitchBook, Crunchbase), VC/CVC relationships, founder networks, accelerators, and active engagement in the West Coast startup ecosystem.
- Identify and evaluate startups that align with innovation strategy and investment priorities.
- Conduct early-stage due diligence, including analysis of:
- Market opportunity and competitive landscape
- Technical differentiation and defensibility
- Business model sustainability and financial outlook
- Team capabilities and execution strength
- Prepare clear and persuasive investment recommendations for the investment team.
- Support the full lifecycle of internal investment processes, including coordination with relevant business stakeholders.
- Monitor and analyze emerging technology trends and relevant investment activity.
Open Innovation, Partnerships & Portfolio Support
- Facilitate collaboration between startups and business units, including pilots, proof-of-concepts (PoCs), and early-stage partnerships that may lead to investment.
- Manage communication, documentation, reporting, and follow-up activities between internal teams and external startup partners.
- Ensure alignment of expectations and accountability across stakeholders.
If assigned:
- Act as a board observer for designated portfolio companies and provide structured internal updates.
- Contribute to value creation through initiatives such as Joint Development Agreements (JDAs), Joint Research Agreements (JRAs), and other strategic partnerships.
- Lead relationships with selected accelerators or ecosystem partners, including deal flow review, event participation, and potential event coordination.
Networking & Ecosystem Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with venture capital firms, corporate venture groups, founders, and ecosystem partners, with a focus on the U.S. West Coast.
- Act as a representative at industry events, panels, startup evaluations, and judging opportunities.
- Support efforts to enhance visibility, reputation, and presence within the innovation and venture community.
Core Competencies
- Venture & Startup Insight: Deep understanding of early-stage companies and venture dynamics, with the ability to assess both strategic alignment and market potential.
- Analytical Thinking & Curiosity: Ability to quickly interpret complex technical and market data, ask insightful questions, and approach ambiguity with structured problem-solving.
- Cross-Cultural & Cross-Functional Communication: Comfortable working across geographies and cultures, particularly with Japan-based stakeholders. Effective communicator with technical and non-technical audiences alike.
- Professional Judgment & Execution: Highly organized and reliable in managing multiple priorities. Demonstrates sound judgment, particularly when handling sensitive or confidential information, while maintaining momentum on deliverables.
Required Qualifications
- 2–3+ years of experience in venture capital or corporate venture capital (CVC)
- Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, business, or a related field
- Proven experience sourcing, evaluating, and supporting early-stage investments
- Familiarity with venture diligence practices, tools, and deal structures
- Strong interest in emerging technologies
- Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally (up to 40%)
Preferred Qualifications
- Established network within the VC/CVC and startup ecosystem, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area
- Demonstrated success in developing investment theses, building founder relationships, and advancing deals
- Experience supporting portfolio companies, strategic partnerships, or accelerator programs
Location: Role requires onsite presence four (4) days per week in Mountain View, CA. Attendance at external conferences or industry events may count toward onsite requirements.
Type: 6-month contract with potential of conversion based on assessed performance
Compensation: $65.0/hr - $71.00/hr (DOE)
- There is opportunity based on experience assessed to be classified as a Venture lead at $79.00/hr - $86.00/hr
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