Country Manager, Canada Location: Toronto, ON (Hybrid) Reports To: Global Leadership Team About Ready4VC Ready4VC is a venture development platform that helps founders build scalable companies through accelerator programs, mentorship, investor readiness support, ecosystem partnerships, and strategic growth initiatives. We work with entrepreneurs, corporations, investors, universities, and economic development organizations to strengthen innovation ecosystems and help high-potential startups succeed. As we expand our footprint in Canada, we are seeking an entrepreneurial and execution-oriented Country Manager to lead our Canadian operations and drive growth across programs, partnerships, revenue, and community engagement. The Opportunity The Country Manager, Canada will serve as the senior leader responsible for establishing and growing Ready4VC's presence across Canada. This role combines business development, ecosystem engagement, program leadership, strategic partnerships, and operational management. The ideal candidate is deeply connected within Canada's startup and innovation ecosystem, understands the challenges facing founders and scaleups, and thrives in a fast-paced environment where building relationships and creating opportunities are critical to success. Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership Develop and execute Ready4VC Canada's growth strategy and annual operating plan. Identify new market opportunities, partnerships, and revenue streams. Build and strengthen Ready4VC's brand and reputation within Canada's innovation ecosystem. Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and ecosystem gatherings. Partnership Development Establish and manage relationships with: Accelerators and incubators Venture capital firms and angel networks Universities and research institutions Government agencies and economic development organizations Corporate innovation teams Founder communities and ecosystem partners Negotiate partnership agreements and collaboration opportunities. Build a sustainable pipeline of strategic partnerships and sponsorships. Program Leadership Oversee the delivery and continuous improvement of accelerator, venture growth, and founder support programs. Ensure exceptional participant experience and measurable program outcomes. Recruit and manage mentors, advisors, investors, and subject matter experts. Monitor program performance and implement improvements based on participant feedback and impact metrics. Business Development & Revenue Growth Lead sales efforts for innovation programs, consulting engagements, sponsorships, and ecosystem initiatives. Develop proposals and respond to partnership and funding opportunities. Build and maintain a healthy pipeline of prospective clients and partners. Meet and exceed annual revenue and growth targets. Ecosystem & Community Building Cultivate relationships with founders across all stages of growth. Foster engagement within Ready4VC's network of mentors, investors, partners, and alumni. Identify opportunities to create meaningful connections that help founders access capital, customers, talent, and expertise. Champion diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within the startup ecosystem. Operations & Team Leadership Manage day-to-day Canadian operations. Build and lead a high-performing local team as the organization grows. Establish operational processes and performance management systems. Oversee budgets, forecasting, and reporting. Ensure compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations. QualificationsRequired 7+ years of experience in startups, venture capital, innovation, entrepreneurship, accelerator management, consulting, or ecosystem development. Demonstrated success building partnerships and managing senior stakeholder relationships. Experience leading programs, initiatives, or teams with measurable outcomes. Strong business development and relationship management capabilities. Excellent communication, presentation, and facilitation skills. Ability to work independently and thrive in an entrepreneurial environment. Preferred Existing network within the Canadian startup and innovation ecosystem. Experience working directly with founders and growth-stage companies. Understanding of venture capital, fundraising, and startup growth dynamics. Experience securing sponsorships, grants, or strategic partnerships. MBA or relevant graduate degree is considered an asset. Success in the First 12 Months The successful candidate will: Establish Ready4VC as a recognized ecosystem partner across key Canadian markets. Launch and successfully deliver high-impact founder and venture support programs. Build a strong network of ecosystem partners, mentors, investors, and corporate collaborators. Generate sustainable revenue through partnerships, sponsorships, and program engagements. Create measurable impact for founders and startups participating in Ready4VC initiatives. Why Join Ready4VC? Opportunity to shape and lead the Canadian growth strategy of an expanding venture platform. Direct impact on founders, startups, and innovation ecosystems. Access to a global network of entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and industry leaders. Entrepreneurial environment with significant autonomy and ownership. Opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up. Ready4VC is committed to creating an inclusive environment and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.