Operations Associate, Founder Catalyst (Europe)

Techstars is seeking a Europe-based Operations Associate to support the delivery of a mobility focused 10-week hybrid pre-accelerator running across three annual cohorts. During quieter periods between cohorts, the Operations Associate will also be expected to support other Techstars programs across Europe and the US.

The Operations Associate will act as a critical engine for both program delivery and top-of-funnel talent acquisition across Europe’s mobility ecosystem. Working closely with Program Manager and partner teams, this role ensures operational efficiency, accuracy, and a high-quality experience for founders, mentors, and partners.

A prominent focus of this role will be founder sourcing-proactively identifying, mapping, and engaging early-stage startups to build a diverse, high-caliber applicant pipeline. This role is detail-oriented, fast-paced, and customer-facing, requiring a blend of ecosystem sourcing expertise and sharp operational execution.

What You Will Do

Founder Sourcing & Ecosystem Pipeline. 

• Proactive Sourcing & Talent Mapping: Actively scout, research, and map early-stage startups and high-potential founders within the designated ecosystems.
• Outbound Engagement: Execute outbound sourcing strategies (via LinkedIn, ecosystem databases, events, and community networks etc) to generate high-quality applications for the Founder Catalyst programs.
• Pipeline Management: Manage and monitor the application funnel within our tracking systems, ensuring seamless data capture, candidate tracking.

Program Operations & Logistics

• Coordinate program schedules, calendars, and deliverables, ensuring all activities are executed on time.
• Support onboarding of founders, mentors, speakers, and facilitators for program sessions.
• Manage program logistics, materials, and platform setups.
• Support Demo Day logistics and in-person program components.
• Track and maintain program contributor databases for future collaboration.

Speaker, Mentor & Stakeholder Coordination

• Assist in identifying, contacting, and scheduling speakers, mentors, and facilitators.
• Ensure all stakeholders have the necessary information and resources for program involvement.
• Maintain clear communication with founders, partners, and internal stakeholders to keep them informed and engaged.

Administrative Support & Communication

• Provide day-to-day operational and administrative support to Program Managers and Program Leads.
• Maintain accurate program documentation, including participant records, session notes, and feedback.
• Ensure operational processes are followed consistently and efficiently.

• Collect and organize feedback from program participants and stakeholders and support continuous process improvement, and operational efficiency to enhance program quality and experience.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Organizational Contribution

• Partner with AIT and Startup Community Central Teams on day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.
• Contribute to cross-program efforts (within Startup Community and AIT) aligned with evolving organizational priorities.
• Engage with global peers to share best practices and strengthen program quality across regions.
• Participate in company-wide meetings, planning cycles, and team initiatives as required.

Core Required Attributes (Abilities, Values, Leadership Qualities)

• Based in Europe, with the flexibility to support programmes across European and US time zones.
• 1–3 years of experience in recruitment sourcing, talent acquisition, venture capital pipeline coordination, or program operations within fast-paced environments (startups, technology, entrepreneurship, or VC).
• Proven experience in sourcing is preferable: Demonstrated ability to proactively search for, identify, and engage talent or early-stage founders using advanced research and outbound outreach techniques.
• Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with comfort pitching Techstars programs to external founders.
• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Experience coordinating events, mentors, speakers, or program logistics.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with evolving priorities.
• Collaborative and service-oriented, with a passion for supporting founders and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
• Familiarity with productivity and tracking tools (Google Workspace, CRM platforms like HubSpot/Salesforce, Airtable, or ATS/AMS platforms).
• Bonus: Interest in exposure to the mobility, cleantech, or sustainability sectors and familiarity with European startup ecosystems

About Techstars

Techstars helps entrepreneurs succeed through a global network of mentors, investors, corporations, and cities. Founded in 2006, Techstars operates accelerator programs and venture capital funds while supporting the development of thriving startup communities worldwide.

Techstars has invested in more than 2,700 companies with a combined market cap valuation exceeding $52B.

Learn more at www.techstars.com