Head of Incubation

Location: Karachi – Onsite
Qualification: Bachelors/ Masters
Experience: Minimum 5-8 years

Job Summary:

You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the incubation program, ensuring it delivers maximum value to our tech startups. This includes curating a high-caliber pool of applicants, managing the selection process, and guiding startups through the incubation journey. You will leverage your technical expertise to understand the unique challenges faced by tech startups and tailor support accordingly. Additionally, you will foster a collaborative and innovative environment within NIC Karachi, connecting startups with the resources and mentors they need to thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Startup Selection and Onboarding:

• Develop and implement rigorous selection criteria to identify promising early-stage tech startups with high growth potential.
• Design and manage the onboarding process, ensuring startups receive essential information, resources, and support to integrate smoothly into the program.
• Actively monitor market trends and proactively bring high-quality startups for induction and acceleration.

2. Program Development and Delivery:

• Collaborate with the Project Director to design and deliver comprehensive incubation programs tailored to the needs of early-stage tech startups.
• Manage the curriculum, including workshops, mentorship sessions, and guest speaker appearances.
• Recruit and manage program instructors and facilitators with relevant expertise.
• Actively develop projects like hackathons, corporate innovation projects, etc.

3. Startup Coaching and Mentorship:

• Coach and mentor startups on critical business issues like market validation, business model development, fundraising, and team building.
• Facilitate connections between startups and relevant mentors within the incubation center network.
• Track and monitor individual startup progress toward program milestones and goals.

4. Community Building and Engagement:

• Foster a collaborative and supportive community environment within the program, encouraging knowledge sharing and peer-to-peer learning.
• Organize networking events and activities to connect startups with potential investors, partners, and customers.
• Cultivate a positive and motivating program culture that empowers startups to succeed.

5. Data Analysis and Program Improvement:

• Collect and analyze data on startup progress, program effectiveness, and participant feedback.
• Identify areas for improvement and revise the program curriculum and delivery methods based on data insights.
• Develop reports and presentations showcasing program impact and success stories.

6. Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate effectively with the Project Director, other department heads, and program staff to ensure seamless program execution.
• Communicate program updates and progress reports to stakeholders, including investors, partners, and mentors.
• Proactively address challenges and provide timely support to participating startups.

Required Skills:

• Familiarity with data analysis tools: Proficiency in Google Sheets. The ability to build and interpret data dashboards.
• Startup Ecosystem Knowledge: Understanding of startup ecosystem fundamentals (funding stages, product lifecycles, venture capital, accelerators/incubators)
• Familiarity with Salesforce or other comparable sales CRM analytics and metrics will give an edge in understanding startup growth strategies.

• Experience in evaluating tech startups for investment or incubation potential.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to mentor and guide aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Passion for innovation and technology.
• Experience working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.