About Antler
Antler backs ambitious founders globally across six continents with offices in 30 cities. We support founders through deep business model validation, initial capital, expansion support, and follow-on funding, and we have invested in over 1,600 startups.
About the Role
This position focuses on identifying and building relationships with exceptional founders and early-stage startups across Japan. Core responsibilities include developing strong connections within the local startup ecosystem and expanding Antler's market presence. Depending on experience level, candidates will own or support the end-to-end scouting function.
Key Responsibilities
- Acquisition: Drive or support sourcing and scouting via email, social media, events, and more.
- Outreach & Funnel: Design and execute structured outbound campaigns to engage potential founders and optimize lead acquisition.
- Scouting Operations: Manage inbound applications through screening calls and founder qualification.
- Community: Drive awareness through partnerships with founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and experienced operators.
- Events: Organize founders meetups, hackathons, investor dinners, and industry conference participation.
Key Requirements — Skills and Experience
- Associate: 2+ years; Manager: 4+ years in startups, venture capital, accelerators, consulting, or related fields.
- Strong understanding of the Japanese startup landscape with an existing local network preferred.
- Ability to identify exceptional founders and 'strong yes' candidates for the Antler Inception Residency.
- Demonstrated relationship-building and community development experience within Japan.
- Experience supporting acquisition funnels with a track record in lead management.
- Event organization or support experience with community-building expertise.
- Fluency in English or Japanese; conversational level in the other language.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building and maintaining strong relationships.
- Strong analytical abilities for operational optimization.
- Prior venture capital and startup ecosystem exposure desirable.
- Proactive, innovative mindset with independent and collaborative work capability.
- Japan-based residence or ability to relocate with a valid work permit.
What We Offer
- Direct exposure to cutting-edge startups and technologies.
- Unique learning opportunity in venture and entrepreneurship.
- Global, respectful, and inclusive team culture that values personal development.
- Contribution to building category-defining companies.
- Work with exceptional, mission-driven teammates.
- Front-row perspective on shaping Japan's innovation future.