Head of the Venture Builder Unit

EPFL is a dynamic and innovative high education and research institution. Fostering entrepreneurship and innovation is one of its main missions. We believe that startups have the power to shape the future, and we are committed to supporting and nurturing the next generation of groundbreaking companies. As part of our mission, we are seeking a highly motivated and experienced driver to lead our venture building programs.

As Head of the Venture Builder Unit at EPFL and reporting directly to the Vice president for Innovation and Impact (VPI), you will aim to create and support startups to transform innovative ideas into business and prepare them to grow and thrive. As such you will drive venture building incubation and acceleration programs, foster student entrepreneurship, and develop a strong entrepreneurial community.

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the Venture Builder Unit, including defining program goals, objectives, and key performance indicators.
• Oversee the startup project selection and creation process, identifying and onboarding promising projects.
• Provide hands-on mentorship and guidance to students and researchers participating in startup teams, helping them navigate challenges and preparing them for a successful launch. Deliver and participate in training for entrepreneurship organized by the EPFL community.
• Foster and maintain relationships with the EPFL research community, the EPFL Technology Transfer Office, investors, mentors, industry partners and other stakeholders to provide valuable connections and resources to startups.
• Contribute to fundraising actions to increase financial capabilities of the Venture Builder in coordination with the other EPFL stakeholders.
• Develop a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem to promote entrepreneurship and the startup culture; contribute to showcase events, investor pitch sessions and juries.
• Continuously assess and improve the incubation and accelerator programs by collecting feedback and implementing enhancements.
• Develop and nurture relationships with the investor community.
• Team Management: Recruit, lead, and inspire a high-performing team to support the programs' success.
• Manage program resources, including budget, staff, and facilities, to ensure the successful operation of the Venture Builder programs.

• Scientific or engineering background, complemented with a degree in management or practical experience as a manager and business leader.
• A strong interest and track record in DeepTech academic working environments, entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Proven experience in venture building, startup ecosystems, accelerators, startups or venture capital.
• Strong network within the startup and investor community.
• Experience and track record of leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities also in an academic ecosystem.
• Strategic thinking, creative and problem-solving capabilities.

• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Fluency in English and French, and German would be a strong plus.

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the Swiss startup ecosystem.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Access to a diverse and dynamic community of researchers, entrepreneurs and industry experts.
• A stimulating and friendly work atmosphere with excellent working conditions.
• Young, dynamic, interdisciplinary and international teams in one of Europe's most innovative and entrepreneurial universities.

Contract Start Date : 07/01/2025

Activity Rate Min : 100,00

Activity Rate Max : 100,00

Contract Type: CDI

Application until end of February

Reference: 1405