Demand Engine & Private Sector Business Development Manager

Position Overview

This role focuses on generating revenue opportunities by creating strategic connections between portfolio startups and private sector companies. The goal is to convert corporate demand into practical outcomes such as pilots, contracts, and paying customers.

Primary Duties

• Establish and maintain a network of corporate and private sector stakeholders spanning procurement, innovation, and business functions.
• Identify challenges faced by corporates and match these needs with appropriate startup solutions.
• Develop and execute commercial engagement activities including corporate challenge events, pilot programs, B2B matchmaking sessions, and showcases featuring corporate-startup collaborations.
• Assist startups throughout the corporate sales process starting from initial introductions and pitches, progressing through pilots to contract finalization.
• Monitor and report on commercial results such as pilots, proofs of concept, signed contracts, and generated revenue for startups.
• Offer market insights to the Startup Scouting & Pipeline Manager about sectors, technologies, and solution demands from corporate clients.
• Lead negotiations for program-level partnerships with private sector entities, encompassing sponsorship agreements and co-branded projects.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum of five years’ experience in B2B sales, corporate partnerships, business development, or similar commercial functions.
• Preferably has an established network within the private sector.
• Capability to comprehend corporate procurement practices alongside the agility and needs of startups, effectively mediating between both.
• Excellent negotiation skills with a readiness to manage responsibilities linked to revenue generation.

Key Collaborations

• Private-sector partners: Engage with decision-makers to facilitate startup collaborations and business opportunities.
• Portfolio startups: Support companies through lead qualification, corporate introductions, pilot development, and securing commercial deals.
• Startup Scouting & Pipeline Manager: Communicate corporate demand insights to shape sector focus and startup evaluation criteria.
• Investor Relations & Capital Access Manager: Partner on corporate venture capital and strategic investor initiatives that align with potential customer engagements.