Program Manager

500 Global

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.

We re looking for a Program Manager to join our rapidly growing team to be based in Dubai. Reporting directly to the Market Launch team, youll lead and drive a new program we are launching in the market. You must share our passion for uplifting people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship. You should understand a founder s journey both its ups and downs and thrive in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments that can sometimes be uncertain, challenging, and intense.

This role will be the key to a successful initiative, which includes various types of startup programs and events. You will be responsible for ensuring the successful execution of all the activities run, creating a positive experience for all participants. Most importantly, you re excited at the prospect of joining a company of talented, passionate individuals and playing a key role in executing programs that drive innovation across various sectors.

Responsibilities can include program design and adaptation, curriculum planning, mentor selection and scheduling, startup recruitment and selection, partner and client management, budget management, data tracking and reporting, community engagement activities, and working with the team to build and maintain 500 Global s presence locally. You will be interacting with founders, mentors, and other program stakeholders on a daily basis. Experience with program management, as well as familiarity with the early-stage venture-backed ecosystem across the GCC/MENA region, is preferred.

This is a 6-month contract role, with the potential to extend.

Essential Functions

• Oversee the initiative end-to-end, including but not limited to curriculum adaptation, program planning, budget management, marketing, and recruiting startups and mentors.
• Implement and ensure the successful delivery of the program, including optimizing startup engagement and measuring startup satisfaction
• Partner and client management, together with the rest of the team, as well as administrative duties
• Keep track of program data and cohort information, and create reports to share with internal and external stakeholders
• Take lead on all program prep and execution, ensuring everything and everyone is where they need to be
• Together with the other team members, drive community engagement by planning and executing social events for program founders and lthe ocal startup ecosystem
• Continuously manage and generate brand awareness around 500 Global, the initiative, and our founders, including establishing strong relationships with key stakeholders
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience in financial institutions, startups, VC, technology industries, or consultancy businesses, including
• 2+ years managing accelerator programs.
• Experience in project management or program management
• Existing relationships within the startup or investment ecosystem in Dubai, UAE, and the wider GCC/MENA regions.
• Mastery of project management tools to drive efficiency and execution.
• Fluent in English and one or more key regional languages.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Entrepreneurial/founder experience.
• Experience working with startups, corporations, or government agencies, particularly in innovation-driven sectors.
• Strong background in data analysis and reporting