VC Associate

Founded in 2017, Toyota Ventures is a San Francisco Bay Area-based venture capital firm with over $800M in assets under management that invests in early-stage startups around the world in deep tech and climate solutions. We are on a mission to discover what’s next for Toyota by helping startups bring groundbreaking technologies and business models to market quickly. We’ve invested in over 100 companies to date, including AM Batteries, Apex Space, Axiom Math, Bipi (acquired), Blackmore (acquired), Efficient Computer, e-Zinc, Intuition Robotics, Joby Aviation (NYSE: Joby), Natura Resources, Pickle Robot, and Stoke Space. Our firm is growing, and we are looking for an associate for the Toyota Ventures Frontier Fund(s) to help source and screen innovative companies in areas like AI, advanced materials, automation and robotics, and space tech. Along with a degree in a relevant field and a minimum of four years of related work experience, we are seeking someone with a strong understanding of deep tech. Hands-on experience in a development or product management role related to one of our investment areas is a plus. The role also requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, an understanding of industry trends, and a knack for spotting the early-stage startups that are defining those trends. The ideal candidate will be a natural networker who is already connected to the startup ecosystem and familiar with leading entrepreneurs and investors in deep tech. Experience creating cap tables, analyzing financial statements, and preparing investment memos is also important. We value diversity, acting with integrity, being humble but bold, and “keeping it weird.” If this sounds like a good fit, and you’re passionate about finding and funding innovative companies, we look forward to hearing from you! This role is based in the San Francisco Bay Area (we have offices in both San Francisco and Los Altos, CA), but remote work from other U.S. cities is possible. Responsibilities: - Network and participate in industry and VC events and organizations - Help generate deal flow and source high-potential target companies - Meet with and evaluate companies to make recommendations on investing - Participate in due diligence, competitive analyses, and in-depth studies on industry trends - Prepare memos and present potential investments to the Investment Committee - Support deal negotiations and closings - Analyze latest industry trends and write market research briefings - Collaborate with Toyota Ventures’ platform team to support portfolio companies Qualifications: - 4+ years of work experience in a relevant role; previous experience in venture capital or an operational role in a technology company is preferred - Bachelor's degree in business, computer science, engineering, or a relevant field - High level of integrity and professionalism, with the ability to maintain strict confidentiality - Entrepreneurial mindset and strong network - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - Strong financial modeling and analysis skills - Extensive experience working with Excel and Google Suite - Comfortable with ambiguity and risk - Ability to collaborate effectively with team members - Proven track record of successfully completing projects with minimal guidance - Passion for learning about new technologies and understanding their business potential The salary range for this position at the commencement of employment is expected to be between $120,000 and $155,000 per year for positions in California. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individual factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Note that Toyota Research Institute offers a generous benefits package (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick leave, and parental leave) and an annual cash bonus structure. Details regarding participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employment offer is extended. Please reference the Candidate Privacy Notice to inform yourself about the categories of personal information collected from individuals who inquire about and/or apply for positions at Toyota Research Institute, Inc. or its subsidiaries, including Toyota A.I. Ventures GP, L.P., and the purposes for which such personal information is used. Toyota Research Institute is driven by a diverse and inclusive community of people with unique backgrounds, education, and life experiences. 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