Associate

plugandplaytechcenter; Tampere; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Plug and Play Tech Center in Tampere is seeking an Associate to drive innovation efforts through client-facing projects and startup scouting.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree, 3+ years in the industry, and proficiency in Finnish and English. Responsibilities include leading startup search, delivering client insights, and managing project logistics.

This role offers the chance to impact global innovation through meaningful connections.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in VC, consulting, or innovation-related fields.
• Proven ability to deliver measurable outcomes and manage multiple stakeholders.
• Strong command of Finnish and advanced English skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead startup discovery and selection aligned with client needs.
• Conduct benchmarking and trend analysis.
• Coordinate startup-client matchmaking sessions.

Skills

Startup scouting

Client-facing project management

Market insights

Data accuracy

Finnish language skills

Education

Master's degree or MBA

Job description

Overview

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 power of global innovation to every corner 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.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

An associate d rives the execution of Plug and Play’s innovation path with ownership over client-facing projects, startup scouting, and investments. The Associate ensures excellence in delivery, builds trusted relationships with clients and startups, and contributes to measurable business impact.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Startup Discovery & Market Insights

• Lead startup scouting and selection aligned with client needs.
• Deliver benchmarking, ecosystem, and trend analysis reports.
• Ensure data accuracy and maintain a consistent pipeline of relevant startups.
• Supporting deal teams on new investments.
• Evaluate and recommend high-potential investment opportunities within the region, ensuring alignment with the global investment thesis.
• Execute the regional due diligence, providing strategic insights and critical evaluation of startup performance to the Investment Committee.

Client & Project Management

• Execute startup–client matchmaking sessions and follow-ups.
• Support event logistics and ensure delivery excellence.
• Coordinate startup participation and readiness for client meetings.

Team Support & Collaboration

• Mentor Junior Associates and Interns in research and delivery tasks.
• Share best practices and cross-vertical learnings within the pod.
• Contribute to vertical growth initiatives and knowledge sharing.

TYPICAL BACKGROUND:

• Education: Master\'s degree (MBA, or related field) is preferred, or a Bachelor\'s degree combined with significant relevant professional experience.
• 3+ years of experience in the industry, VC, consulting, innovation, or client-facing project management.
• Proven ability to deliver measurable outcomes and manage multiple stakeholders.
• Finnish language skills are required and an advanced level of English is essential; additional Nordic languages are a plus.