Ajinomoto Group Ventures is looking to add a venture partner to help identify and execute investments in semiconductors and advanced materials.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

The Venture Partner position will support and advance Ajinomoto Group Ventures’ investment and innovation activities in the ICT segment, driving deal flow, assessing opportunities, and executing investments, all within a corporate environment where investment decisions are driven by strategic alignment, integration potential, and long-term value creation.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 8+ years of experience in venture capital, private equity, or relevant roles within operating companies, with exposure to both investment execution and strategic or business-oriented decision-making
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, materials science, business, or finance)
• Strong hands-on experience with US venture investment processes, including deal sourcing, due diligence, and execution
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate and prioritize investment opportunities based on both financial merit and strategic relevance, including potential business impact within a corporate context
• Demonstrated track record or strong network in one or more of the following sectors:
  
  • Semiconductors
  • Batteries / energy storage
  • Advanced materials
• Experience working with global or cross-border teams and navigating complex corporate environments is a plus

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong ability to formulate and test investment theses and strategic hypotheses under conditions of uncertainty and incomplete information
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess technology, market potential, and strategic fit in the context of corporate priorities
• Clear understanding of CVC-specific investment frameworks, including the importance of strategic fit, integration potential, and long-term value creation beyond financial returns
• Deep understanding of the US startup and venture capital ecosystem, including deal structuring and syndication dynamics
• Established and relevant network of founders, investors, and ecosystem players in targeted sectors
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate technical, market, and investment insights into clear, actionable recommendations
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively with internal stakeholders across strategy, R&D, and business functions
• Ability to operate effectively in a flexible, part-time engagement model with a high level of ownership and accountability

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:‍

• Independently develop and refine investment theses, and originate and drive investment ideas based on differentiated insights and clear strategic hypotheses
• Translate emerging technology and market trends into actionable strategic hypotheses for the organization
• Challenge and refine internal assumptions by bringing external market perspectives and independent analysis
• Source and introduce high-quality investment opportunities aligned with Ajinomoto’s ICT and advanced materials focus areas
• Conduct initial screening and perform due diligence in collaboration with the internal investment team
• Actively participate in deal execution, including syndicate coordination and negotiation where applicable
• Identify and advance opportunities where collaboration between the company and startups can drive meaningful strategic advantage
• Contribute to portfolio value creation by strategic input and ecosystem introductions (investors, partners, customers)
• Expand and maintain strong relationships across venture capital firms, startups, universities, research institutions, and industry partners
• Represent Ajinomoto Group Ventures at industry events, conferences, and networking engagements to enhance visibility and deal flow
• Provide regular updates and actionable insights to internal stakeholders

WORKING MODELS AND CONDITIONS:

• Part-time engagement (~84 hours per month; approximately 3 days per week equivalent)
• Flexible working schedule, aligned around key meetings and agreed deliverables
• Hybrid working model, with a preference for candidates based in the Palo Alto area and occasional onsite presence as needed
• Occasional domestic travel within the United States for meetings, events, and ecosystem engagement
• Participation in key global meetings, either remotely or in person as required

To apply, send your CV to venturing@ajiusa.com. Please include a short message on why you want to join our team and use "2026 Venture Partner" in your email subject.

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