Head of Accelerator
Ventures Platform
Location: Hybrid (Remote with travel across Nigeria)
Reporting To: Program Lead
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Ventures Platform Foundation (VPF)
Ventures Platform Foundation is the non-profit arm of Ventures Platform, focused on investing for impact. Through programs like Startup Bridge, VPF supports entrepreneurs with cash, support, know-how, enabling environments, and policy engagement.
Our vision is to build the future of Africa through innovation and entrepreneurship, and our mission is to invest in innovators and entrepreneurs to unlock the potential of underserved sectors, people, and places in Africa.
We believe that entrepreneurship and innovation are more potent than governments and grants in driving Africa’s progress. Our values guide how we work: Empathy, Excellence, Innovation, Deliberateness, Collaboration, and Grit.
Head of Accelerator Program
The Head of Accelerator Program will design and deliver the Startup Bridge Accelerator pathway, managing startup cohorts from recruitment through demo day. This senior role requires a seasoned startup operator who can balance program execution with investor engagement and founder support.
Core Responsibilities
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Design and oversee the execution of the 12-week accelerator program.
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Manage startup recruitment, selection, onboarding, and cohort progress.
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Build and maintain relationships with investors, mentors, and advisors.
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Coordinate bootcamps, immersions, and demo day preparation.
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Oversee milestone tracking, grants, and SAFE disbursements.
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Ensure compliance with donor and legal frameworks.
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Produce reports and insights on startup performance and program outcomes.
Core Expertise
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8+ years in startup acceleration, venture building, or VC/angel investing.
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Experience managing accelerator or investment readiness programs.
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Strong understanding of startup fundraising and SAFEs.
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Skilled in stakeholder engagement across public and private sectors.
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Familiarity with Nigeria’s startup ecosystem and regional hubs.
Soft Skills
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Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
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Excellent relationship-building and negotiation.
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Ability to mentor founders and align diverse stakeholders.
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Resilient and adaptable to fast-paced environments.
What We Offer
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Opportunity to shape the next generation of high-growth startups in Africa.
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Competitive salary and comprehensive HMO coverage.
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Hybrid work structure with travel across Nigeria.
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A collaborative, mission-driven culture.
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Career growth opportunities with a leading impact organization.
How to Apply
If you meet the above criteria and are excited about shaping Africa’s entrepreneurship future, please share your CV and a brief cover letter in the form below.
Ventures Platform Recruitment Process
Our recruitment process is designed to be thorough while ensuring a great candidate experience. Successful candidates can expect the following stages:
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First Stage: Introductory interview with the People & Culture team and a member of the Ventures Platform team.
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Second Stage: Technical assessment to evaluate role-specific capabilities.
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Third Stage: Panel interview with key stakeholders, including the Hiring Manager.
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Final Stage: A culture conversation with the Founding Partner and Managing Partner.