EPFL Innovation Park is a thriving hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, home to nearly 200 high-tech startups and research and development units from multinational companies across 17 buildings, including one in Geneva. With 65,000 m² of office and laboratory space, our vibrant community boasts 2,800 individuals, including entrepreneurs, innovators, and scientists. We are seeking a forward-thinking
who shares our vision of fostering dynamic platform of exchange between entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists and investors, showcasing innovation in Switzerland in alignment with EPFL's esteemed global reputation.
Mission:
As the Head of the Deep Tech Venture Builder at the EPFL Innovation Park Foundation (FEIP), your mission is to support startups at every phase of their development, from ideation to late stage. You will be responsible for designing and running our horizontal Venture Builder. You will consolidate, professionalize, scale and enhance all the instruments necessary to maximize innovation project successes. Additionally, you will cultivate a robust network of industrial partners, secure sustainable funding, and enhance the visibility of our programs within the broader ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement the strategic vision of FEIP’s horizontal Deep Tech Venture Builder, including defining goals, priorities and key performance indicators
- Design and lead incubation, acceleration, scale-up and late-stage programs to support startups through each phase of their journey
- Actively promote the Deep tech venture builder within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, ensuring its visibility and attractiveness
- Secure multi-year funding for the accelerator with a three-year budget horizon
- Monitor and manage program quality (mentee satisfaction, mentor engagement stability, perceived impact)
- Design the mentorship program (legal framework, IT tools, communication, operational processes)
- Define mentor selection criteria and implement an effective selection process
- Develop high-value-added services with international reach to offer strategic support to startups and maximize their growth potential
- Foster and animate the mentor community, encouraging exchange and feedback
In addition, the candidate is expected to
- Contribute to the recruitment and selection of relevant startups for the Park, identifying and integrating promising projects aligned with the Foundation’s key themes
- Maintain close relationships with Park tenants to gain deep insight into their needs and provide tailored support
- In coordination with the Vice Presidency for Innovation (VPI), ensure seamless follow-up for startups emerging from their programs, facilitating their integration and establishment within the Park
- Build and manage a network of industrial partners to generate commercial opportunities for the tenant startups as well as for start-up enrolled into EIP acceleration programs
Your Profile:
- Scientific or engineering background, complemented with a degree in management or hands-on experience as a business leader or manager
- Strong interest in and proven experience with Deep Tech academic environments, entrepreneurship and innovation
- Solid hands-on entrepreneurial experience, with strong knowledge of startup ecosystems, accelerators and venture capital
- Established network within startup and investor communities
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Strategic thinking, creative and problem-solving capabilities
- Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
- Fluency in French and English, German would be a strong plus.
We Offer:
- A dynamic and innovative working environment
- A position with high levels of responsibility, autonomy and proactivity
- Access to a diverse and vibrant community of researchers, entrepreneurs and industry experts
- A stimulating and friendly work atmosphere with excellent working conditions
Start Date: Immediately or upon agreement