Strategy Lead, Kernel Fund (2-Year Contract)

Singapore Management University; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Singapore Management University seeks a strategic leader for the Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship to drive the Kernel Fund from concept to execution. You will orchestrate governance, due diligence, and portfolio oversight while building partnerships with investors and university stakeholders.

The role demands 8–12 years of senior experience in innovation, venture building, or technology transfer, with strong stakeholder management and financial stewardship.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline as listed (Business/Finance/Entrepreneurship/Innovation).
• Postgraduate qualification such as an MBA or Master’s in venture capital, tech commercialization, or entrepreneurship is advantageous.
• Proven ability to launch and operationalize programmes, funds, or platforms from concept to implementation.

Responsibilities

• Lead Kernel Fund strategy, launch, and governance aligned with SMU priorities and national objectives.
• Translate Kernel Fund into an actionable operating platform with clear objectives and success metrics.
• Develop the Kernel Fund roadmap across workstreams like networking, venture-builder pathways, and talent initiatives.
• Design funding SOPs, due diligence, and portfolio governance; ensure alignment with MOE requirements.
• Build and manage Kernel Fund pipeline through structured networking and co-founder matching.
• Establish partnerships with investors, venture builders, and ecosystem players to strengthen funding opportunities.
• Oversee portfolio management, milestone tracking, and post-award support for Spin-off and ScaleBIG pathways.
• Maintain budget stewardship, reporting, controls, and compliance for Kernel Fund.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Engineering, Technology, Law, Public Policy or related discipline

MBA or Master’s degree or equivalent professional training in venture capital, technology commercialization, innovation management, IP, or entrepreneurship

Job description

Singapore Management University seeks a strategic leader for the Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship to drive the Kernel Fund from concept to execution. You will orchestrate governance, due diligence, and portfolio oversight while building partnerships with investors and university stakeholders.

The role demands 8–12 years of senior experience in innovation, venture building, or technology transfer, with strong stakeholder management and financial stewardship.