Director of Operations/Strategy

A strategic and operational leader driving ecosystem growth, partnerships, and community engagement across APAC. This role combines strategic planning with hands-on execution—building relationships with key partners and exchanges, running cross-functional initiatives, and fostering a vibrant open-source AI community in markets including Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Responsibilities Strategy & Planning - Develop and execute strategies spanning marketing, BD, and community growth with APAC as priority - Lead planning cycles ensuring alignment between ecosystem initiatives and Foundation mission - Identify market opportunities and position Sentient Foundation as a leader in open-source AI Operations & Execution - Drive cross-functional coordination, resolving dependencies and keeping initiatives on track - Build processes and systems that improve team velocity and operational excellence - Support leadership in real-time decision-making to move projects forward efficiently Business Development & Partnerships - Build relationships with exchanges, AI labs, protocols, and enterprises across APAC - Leverage exchange relationships to drive strategic initiatives and ecosystem visibility - Represent the Foundation at industry events and conferences throughout the region Marketing & Community - Shape Foundation messaging and brand positioning with regional nuance - Design programs that engage developers, researchers, and builders across APAC - Build relationships with community members, contributors, and KOLs in key markets Requirements - 5+ years in strategy, operations, BD, or ecosystem growth in web3 or AI - Background at a top exchange (Coinbase, Binance, OKX) is a strong plus - Experience at a foundation or protocol-level organization preferred - Strong track record building partnerships and driving execution in APAC markets - Exceptional communication skills; ability to operate autonomously in fast-paced environments - Deep understanding of open-source software, AI, and web3 ecosystems - Existing network within APAC AI and crypto communities strongly preferred - Fluency in Mandarin is a plus