Venture Director (VD) – Independent Consultant
Tokyo (Significant In-Residence Commitment) | Full-Time Consulting Engagement | Up to 36 Months
SRI International has been selected by the Government of Japan’s Cabinet Office to help implement the International Research Program (IRP), a flagship initiative under the Global Start-up Campus (GSC) Global Startup Campus – Official Site. As part of this effort, SRI is seeking senior, independent consultants to serve as Venture Directors (VDs)—a program-manager role with exceptional autonomy and impact.
As a Venture Director consultant, you will design, launch, and lead ambitious deep-technology research programs addressing major economic, societal, and environmental challenges. Each VD will have access up to $30M in research funding for the programs they design and oversee.
This is a non-employee consulting engagement, structured as a full-time commitment for up to three years, and requires significant time in residence in Tokyo.
What you’ll do
Who you are
Key domains of interestBio-Health Systems • Advanced Connectivity & Compute • Smart Autonomous Systems (AI, robotics, sensors, digital twins)
Japanese language proficiency is not required. Familiarity with Japan is helpful.
Compensation and travel expenses will be competitive.
Contracting Disclaimer:
This information has been provided prior to contract finalization between SRI and the Japanese government and the program details may be subject to change.
Independent Consultant / Non-Employee Disclaimer
This role is offered exclusively as an independent consulting engagement. Venture Directors will serve as non-employees of SRI International, operating under a consulting agreement for a full-time commitment of up to 36 months. This position does not include employee status or employee benefits.