Program Director, Nigeria
500 Startups
Operations
Lagos, Nigeria
Posted on Apr 2, 2025
Our Mission
We uplift people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship.
Who We Are
500 Global is a venture capital firm with $2.2B in assets under management that invests in founders building fast-growing technology companies. We focus on markets where technology, innovation, and capital can unlock long-term value and drive economic growth. We work closely with key stakeholders and advise governments and corporations on how best to support entrepreneurial ecosystems so startups can thrive. 500 Global has backed over 5,000 founders representing more than 3,000+ companies operating in 80+ countries. We have invested in 35+ companies valued at over $1 billion and 160+ companies valued at over $100 million (including private, public, and exited companies). Our 180+ team members are located in 27 countries and bring experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from some of the world’s leading technology companies.
Job Scope:
We are seeking a Program Director to lead our Lagos, Nigeria hub, driving the development, execution, and expansion of high-impact programs. In this role, you will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the hub, managing key stakeholder relationships, and building a strong local team. You will play a critical role in supporting entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth. The ideal candidate is a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of the founder’s journey and experience in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments.
Essential Functions
- Lead the implementation of all programs, events, and activities within the Lagos, Nigeria hub, ensuring KPIs (NPS, fundraising, revenue growth, job creation) for startups and other relevant impact metrics are met.
- Work closely with firm leadership and local teams to identify, source, and select top companies for programs, contributing to their strategic direction.
- Develop and implement programs, including sector-specific programs, supporting founder growth and partnerships, with an emphasis on AI, sustainability, and emerging technology ecosystems.
- Strategically plan, source, and manage internal and external resources—including investment partners, mentors, and technical experts—to deliver high-quality programs.
- Manage and successfully navigate relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including sponsors, clients, and ecosystem partners, to maximize engagement in the region.
- Work cross-functionally across teams and departments to ensure timely and high-quality execution of initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
- At least 10 years of professional experience in financial institutions, startups, VC, technology industries, or consultancy businesses, including 4 or more years managing accelerator programs.
- 5 or more years of people management or team leadership experience.
- Experience managing complex, cross-border projects engaging multiple stakeholders globally.
- Strong program management expertise with a track record of scaling and optimizing innovation-focused initiatives.
- Existing relationships within the startup or investment ecosystem in Lagos, Nigeria and the wider Africa regions.
- Fluent in English and one or more key regional languages.
- Work authorization in Nigeria
Preferred Qualifications
- Entrepreneurial/founder experience.
- Experience working with startups, corporations, or government agencies, particularly in innovation-driven sectors.
- Strong background in budgeting, data analysis, and reporting.
- Experience working in diverse, cross-cultural environments with a global mindset.
- Mastery of project management tools to drive efficiency and execution.
This is a 1-year contract role.
500 Global does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.
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