Deshpande Foundation

Associate - Strategy & Execution

Job Position Associate - Strategy & Execution

Department name K-Hub

Reporting to Head, Kakatiya Sandbox

Location Nizamabad

Level/Grade L2

Education Any degree / PG

Experience Minimum 2 years

Tentative Date of Joining ASAP

About the Position:

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and highly adaptable individual who thrives in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment. Think of this role as a mix of Chief of Staff and Founder’s Associate—you’ll be working closely with the Head of Kakatiya Sandbox, ensuring smooth execution across operations, logistics, and ecosystem engagement. If you’re someone who enjoys wearing multiple hats, moving quickly from one task to another, and being at the heart of decision-making and execution, this role is for you.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Someone early in their career (a min of 2 years of experience) who values learning and exposure.
  • Hands-on doer – not just a planner but someone who executes with speed and precision.
  • A person who is curious, proactive, and resourceful, and doesn’t wait for instructions to add value.
  • Someone who enjoys being in the thick of things—whether it’s managing a high-profile donor visit, setting up an ecosystem event, or troubleshooting an operational challenge.
  • Most importantly, someone who wants to grow fast by working closely with leadership and stepping into a wide variety of responsibilities.
  • Key responsibilities & accountabilities:

    • Operational Hustle: Strong understanding of day-to-day operations and logistics; ability to keep multiple moving parts running smoothly.
    • Multitasking & Prioritization: Comfortable switching between high-level strategy and ground-level execution without dropping the ball.
    • Problem-Solving: A quick thinker who can adapt and find solutions in real time.
    • Communication & Coordination: Ability to manage internal teams, external partners, and stakeholders with clarity and confidence.

    Key Competency and skills

    • Step into Partnerships – assist in driving collaborations with ecosystem partners, corporates, and government.
    • Host & Manage Guests and Donors – ensuring every visit is impactful and well-executed.
    • Shape Community & Ecosystem – curate events and initiatives that bring together founders, partners, and stakeholders.
    • Be at the Center of Action – work directly with the Head on strategic and operational priorities.
    • Grow Exponentially – gain exposure across functions, expand your network, and develop a leadership mindset early in your career.
    • This is a role for someone who wants to learn by doing, be at the nerve center of decision-making, and accelerate their career in a way few other early-career roles can offer.