Senior Strategic Partnership Manager, serves as the primary point of contact for climate tech, energy, and sustainability startups and VCs. The position combines external partnership leadership with internal consulting, translating emerging technologies into actionable insights for Obayashi HQ and group companies. The role requires the ability to translate abstract business needs and emerging technologies into structured opportunity hypotheses and actionable recommendations for Obayashi's business units and corporate functions.
The ideal candidate will connect business needs with early- to growth-stage innovations, develop structured opportunity hypotheses, and drive actionable recommendations that support strategic decision-making and business development initiatives. The role will be based in the San Carlos, CA, office and will report to the Chief Operating Officer, SVVL.
Key Responsibilities- Lead engagement with startups, venture capital firms, and ecosystem partners in climate tech and energy sectors
- Identify, evaluate, and develop strategic partnership opportunities aligned with business priorities
- Design and manage Proofs of Concept (PoCs), pilot programs, and co-development initiatives with internal stakeholders
- Conduct technical, market, and strategic research to support partnership and innovation efforts
- Provide consultative insights and recommendations to business units and corporate leadership
- Attend industry conferences and events; synthesize and communicate key market insights and trends
- Prepare and deliver bilingual (Japanese/English) presentations, including executive-level materials
- Support structuring of partnerships, including business models, go-to-market strategies, and collaboration frameworks
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree required; technical background preferred (e.g., energy, sustainability, construction, infrastructure)
- 10+ years of relevant professional experience in strategy, innovation, venture, or related fields
- Business-level proficiency in both Japanese and English (spoken and written)
- Strong familiarity with startup ecosystems and emerging technology landscapes
- Experience in corporate venture capital (CVC), venture capital (VC), or innovation-focused environments (investment execution not required)
- Demonstrated interest in emerging technologies, innovation, and new business development
- Proven ability to navigate ambiguity and independently structure projects from concept to execution
- Excellent cross-cultural communication skills, particularly bridging Japanese and U.S. business environments
- Ability to work independently across time zones and multicultural teams
Preferred Qualifications- Experience working with CVC units, VC funds, or startup accelerators
- Industry experience in climate tech, energy, sustainability, construction, or infrastructure
- Ability to evaluate early- to growth-stage technologies and business models
- MBA, M.S., or equivalent advanced degree
Skills:- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to facilitate meetings and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Ability to conduct market research, analyze data, and create compelling presentations.
- Self-motivated, disciplined, proactive team player.
- Experience with project management and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Keynote), and other relevant tools.
Other:
- Able to work evenings to communicate with Japan.
- Ability to travel up to approximately 10% travel, including travel within the United States and Canada for conferences and partner meetings. Occasional international travel to Japan (approximately once per year, as needed) may also be required.
- Reliable transportation to and from work
- Must have a valid Driver's License
- Required to work onsite or hybrid (3x/week in the office)
ANTICIPATED SALARY RANGE: $160,000-$185,000 USD / yr
In accordance with California state law, Obayashi Corporation is committed to providing clear and transparent information regarding the compensation for this position. The final salary offered will be based on various factors, including the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and relevant market considerations. This salary range reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this role within California. Compensation in other states may vary based on local market conditions and applicable regulations. We strive to offer competitive and fair compensation across all locations.
BENEFITS: Obayashi Offers Competitive Market Salaries and a Benefits Package including:
- Medical PPO Plan and HDHP
- Dental DPO Plan
- Vision Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- Health Savings Account
- Flexible Spending Account
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Sick Leave
- Paid Time Off
- 401(k) Plan Matching
Employee benefits are 100% covered by Obayashi and family coverage is covered at 80%.
