Application Guide

How to Apply for Cohort Programs Manager

at UpStart

🏢 About UpStart

UpStart is a field catalyst for Jewish social innovation, with nearly two decades of experience partnering with over 250 organizations and thousands of leaders. They are shifting from a program provider to shaping the entire Jewish innovation ecosystem, codifying their Jewish Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship (JSIE) Methodology. Working here means being at the forefront of a renaissance in Jewish life, supporting entrepreneurs who are turning bold ideas into enduring impact.

About This Role

As Cohort Programs Manager, you will be the primary project manager for UpStart's cohort-based programs, ensuring smooth delivery across multiple pathways. You'll coordinate logistics, support program implementation, and serve as the central point of contact for participants and stakeholders. This role is critical to UpStart's mission of connecting impact-driven entrepreneurs to expertise, community, and capital, directly enabling their success.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve checking in with cohort participants via Slack, coordinating with facilitators on upcoming sessions, updating project timelines in Asana, and preparing materials for a webinar. You could also spend time analyzing feedback from a recent program to improve future cohorts, and meeting with the program team to align on goals and share updates.

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🎯 Who UpStart Is Looking For

  • Proven experience in project management, preferably in cohort-based or educational programs, with the ability to manage multiple timelines and stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with the Jewish innovation ecosystem or a strong interest in social entrepreneurship and Jewish communal life.
  • Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with a knack for building relationships and fostering community among diverse participants.
  • Comfort working remotely and using digital tools to coordinate programs, with a proactive and adaptable mindset in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Tips for Applying to UpStart

1

Highlight any experience managing cohort programs or learning communities, specifically mentioning how you handled logistics, participant engagement, and program evaluation.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of UpStart's shift to a field catalyst and the JSIE Methodology by referencing it in your application and explaining how you can support its codification.

3

Show your passion for Jewish social innovation by sharing examples of how you've supported entrepreneurs or innovative initiatives in the Jewish community.

4

Emphasize your ability to work remotely and manage projects across time zones, using tools like Asana, Slack, or Zoom to keep programs on track.

5

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your skills to the position summary, such as coordinating cohort delivery and supporting program implementation, to show you've read the job description carefully.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience managing cohort-based programs or similar learning experiences, including size, scope, and outcomes.', "Your familiarity with the Jewish innovation ecosystem and why UpStart's mission resonates with you personally and professionally.", 'How you would approach the role of primary project manager across program pathways, with concrete examples of your project management methodology.', 'Your ability to build community and support entrepreneurs remotely, and how you would ensure participants feel connected and supported.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore UpStart's website, especially their FY27–29 Strategic Plan and any resources on the JSIE Methodology, to understand their current focus and language.
  • → Research the Jewish innovation ecosystem, including key organizations, funders, and trends, to speak knowledgeably about the field.
  • → Look up recent UpStart cohort programs and participants to understand the types of entrepreneurs and initiatives they support.
  • → Review UpStart's inclusive hiring commitment and be prepared to discuss how you contribute to a diverse and inclusive environment.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you manage multiple cohort programs simultaneously while ensuring each receives the attention and resources needed?
2 Describe a time you had to adapt a program mid-cycle based on participant feedback or external factors. What was the outcome?
3 What do you know about the Jewish Social Innovation & Entrepreneurship (JSIE) Methodology, and how would you help codify it as a shared language for the field?
4 How would you measure the success of a cohort program, and what metrics would you prioritize?
5 Give an example of how you've built community among a diverse group of participants in a remote setting.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic applications that don't mention UpStart's specific mission or the Jewish innovation ecosystem; they want to see genuine interest.
  • Don't downplay remote work experience; if you haven't worked remotely, address how you'll adapt and stay connected.
  • Don't focus solely on administrative tasks; emphasize your strategic project management and community-building abilities.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to UpStart!

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