Sr. Manager-startup Programs

The Leaders Hive; Ahmedabad District; On-site; INR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

The Leaders Hive is seeking an experienced Program Manager to own and deliver a multi-stakeholder startup incubation program in Ahmedabad.

You will guide planning, execution, and evaluation of program components, collaborate with marketing, legal and partners, and support portfolio startups with mentorship and access to resources. Strong communication and strategic thinking are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing complex programs involving multiple stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of startup operations, investment mechanisms, and ecosystem dynamics including the ability to evaluate deals and support investment decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Own the full program lifecycle from planning to evaluation to ensure smooth, high-quality delivery of all components.
• Provide strategic direction and leadership to guide the program toward its goals.
• Collaborate with internal teams (marketing, legal, support) and external stakeholders to align goals and execution plans.
• Scout and evaluate potential startups, conduct due diligence for investment decisions, and support portfolio startups to achieve their goals.
• Manage day-to-day program operations and maintain timelines while staying adaptable in a fast-changing ecosystem.
• Set up reporting systems and share updates with leadership, partners, and stakeholders; conduct periodic reviews to identify improvements.
• Organize events, workshops, and networking sessions to strengthen the ecosystem and create lasting value.

Skills

Program leadership

Startup ecosystem knowledge

Communication & relationship mgmt

Education

Bachelor's degree (tech preferred)

Job description

• Own the full program lifecycle from planning and execution to evaluation, ensuring smooth, high - quality delivery of all program components.
• Provide strategic direction and leadership to guide the program toward its goals.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work with internal teams (marketing, legal, support etc) to align program goals and execution plans.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders - partners, funders, investors, and domain experts.

Startup Engagement & Support

• Scout and evaluate potential startups, conducting due diligence for investment and selection decisions.
• Work closely with portfolio startups to understand their needs and help them achieve their goals.
• Facilitate access to mentorship, networking, and program resources.
• Track startup progress to ensure they're making the most of what the program offers.

Operations & Execution

• Manage day-to-day program operations, handling multiple projects and engagements at once without compromising quality or timelines.
• Stay adaptable to the fast-changing nature of the startup ecosystem.

Monitoring, Reporting & Review

• Set up reporting systems to track program performance and outcomes.
• Share regular updates and reports with leadership, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Conduct periodic reviews to identify areas for improvement.

Community Building

• Organize events, workshops, and networking sessions that bring together startups, mentors, and partners.
• Drive initiatives that strengthen the ecosystem and create lasting value for all stakeholders.
• Keep up with trends and best practices in startup incubation and the broader entrepreneurial landscape.
• Suggest and drive improvements to program design and delivery.

Must have skills

Proven experience managing complex programs involving multiple stakeholders. Strong understanding of startup operations, investment mechanisms, and ecosystem dynamics including the ability to evaluate deals and support investment decision-making.

Good to have skills

Strong communication and relationship-management skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (a degree in a technology-related field is preferred).
• 5–7 years of experience in program management, startup ecosystems, or a related field. Experience with inclusive tech, fintech, or jobs & livelihoods startups is a plus.