#Japan #Tokyo #EVeM #StartPass #COO BASE

Introduction

StartPass, a company based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, aimed at creating an ecosystem for startups, has officially launched a new initiative called COO BASE. This project is designed to support Chief Operating Officers (COOs) and COO candidates in their execution capabilities and network formation. The first phase includes a collaboration with EVeM, a manager enablement service provider, to develop a hands-on "COO School" tailored for startups, offering an exclusive free program to StartPass users.

The Challenge Facing Startups

With the increasing number of new businesses, the startup market is expanding rapidly. However, as organizations enter growth phases, several issues arise, such as shortages of management resources, heightened management burdens, and increasing operational complexities. A significant structural issue at the core of these challenges is the lack of effective COOs. Many startups struggle to find suitable candidates due to the broad range of responsibilities required of a COO and often face isolated onboarding experiences without collaborative networks. As a result, COOs are frequently distracted by incidental tasks, unable to focus on their essential roles of strategy execution and organizational development, leading to a detrimental cycle where their time for strategic planning is sacrificed.

Supporting Second Pillar of Startup Management

Since launching its Growth-Pass initiative, StartPass has engaged deeply with over 30 startups to visualize their growth structures and tackle their management challenges. Drawing on insights gained from this intensive support, StartPass established COO BASE as a comprehensive project aimed at integrating the essential elements of COO recruitment, execution support, and networking. COO BASE is not merely a recruitment service or training program; it is designed to ensure that COOs can fulfill their fundamental roles effectively, enabling them to move forward with confidence.

Three Pillars of COO BASE

COO BASE focuses on creating an environment where COOs can thrive as the core of management. The initiative empowers their roles and influence across three key areas: recruitment, execution support, and networking.

1. Recruitment (Hire)
COO BASE supports the recruitment of ideal COO candidates tailored for startups. Through StartPass's "CxO-Pass," potential COOs are recommended and matched to positions. The project assists with role definition and onboarding foundations to bridge gaps between founders and COOs, ensuring that COOs can operate effectively within their companies.

2. Execution Support (Implement)
The COO School, developed in conjunction with EVeM, provides a structured program where COOs can systematically learn necessary skills, mindsets, and the importance of their roles. Participants will receive support in strategy execution, management rhythms, and systemization. This program clarifies the expected roles of COOs, helping them maintain focus on their core responsibilities in the face of operational gravity.

3. Networking (Network)
COO BASE seeks to connect isolated COOs, facilitating the exchange of practical knowledge within a community. This collaborative environment allows COOs to share experiences and tackle management challenges in unison, building a common language and trust among their peers, thereby fostering continuous learning and growth.

Overview of the COO School

The core operation of COO BASE is the COO School, targeting COOs and COO candidates from StartPass user companies. This one-day program is designed to support early-stage startup COOs by combining EVeM's comprehensive management knowledge with StartPass’s implementation expertise, allowing participants to learn the skills and mindsets they require for effective strategy execution and organizational systematization.

• - Eligibility: COOs/COO candidates from StartPass user companies (subject to approval)
• - Capacity: Limited to 10 participants per session (scheduled quarterly)
• - Structure: 1-day training (EVeM) + 1-on-1 sessions (StartPass)
• - Benefits: Post-training participation in "COO BASE" Slack/events (in preparation)

Comments from EVeM's CEO

Mr. Yoshinori Nagamura, CEO of EVeM, expressed his happiness in establishing COO BASE alongside StartPass, highlighting the dynamic nature of COO roles based on the type of CEO and business context. He emphasized the importance of skill-building and learning from peers in this pivotal position. He believes COO BASE will become a beacon of hope for Japanese COOs.

Announcement of New COO at StartPass

In conjunction with the launch of the COO BASE initiative, StartPass appointed Junta Suzuki (Jay) as its COO. Jay’s experience at EVeM in manager development and organizational growth provided him with a critical understanding of the structural challenges faced by startups, particularly the necessity of having robust support for founders. He aims to embody the COO role actively while driving COO BASE forward.

Feedback from Supporting COOs

The launch of COO BASE has garnered support from a wide range of COOs, who recognize the initiative’s potential in addressing the challenges of their roles. From different backgrounds, COOs have shared their thoughts on the program’s practical learning opportunities and the importance of collaboration.

COO Night Event

To commemorate the official launch of COO BASE, an event called "COO Night by StartPass and freee" will be hosted, gathering COOs, COO candidates, and former COOs for networking and sharing insights.
Event Details:

• - Date: January 20, 2026, from 18:30 to 20:30
• - Location: Ohsaki Central Tower 19th floor, Freee Co., Ltd
• - Cost: Free
• - Format: Casual standing reception

Conclusion

As startups continue to navigate an ever-evolving landscape, initiatives like COO BASE play a crucial role in bridging the gap between founders and effective operational leadership. This project aims to empower COOs, ensuring they can focus on their essential roles and support the growth of their organizations effectively.