Project Director (Venture Builder) 80%-100% CDI

Project Overview

Our initiatives focus on innovative venture creation, advancing cutting-edge technologies in biotechnology, and enhancing healthcare solutions across Switzerland, Europe, and Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Venture Creation:
  • Lead the entire process from idea generation to spin-off creation, including validation, MVP development, and pilot execution.
  • Develop business cases, financial models, and go-to-market strategies.
  • Conduct comprehensive customer discovery, market assessments, and competitive analyses in fields such as IVD, molecular diagnostics, and biosensors.
  • Make data-driven decisions to optimize resource allocation within the portfolio.
• Team Building:
  • Recruit founding teams including roles such as CEO, CTO, and CSO for new spin-off companies.
  • Establish Scientific Advisory Boards and build expert networks.
  • Mentor portfolio teams and foster partnerships with academic institutions.
• Fundraising:
  • Prepare compelling investment materials and negotiate with funding sources.
  • Structure funding rounds effectively.
  • Present projects to the Investment Committee and engage with external investors.
• Governance & Regulatory:
  • Serve on the Boards of Directors of spin-off entities.
  • Evaluate regulatory pathways and develop IP strategies while ensuring compliance standards are met.

Qualifications

• Education: PhD or Master's degree in biotechnology, biology, chemistry, bioengineering, medicine, or related fields; an MBA is a plus.
• Experience: 5+ years in venture building, corporate venturing, startup creation, or early-stage venture capital.
• Track Record: Successful creation of at least 3 biotech/medtech projects from inception to fundraising or exit.
• Scientific Depth: Robust understanding of IVD and biotechnological processes.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with Swissmedic, MDR/IVDR, FDA; knowledge of African regulators (SAHPRA, NAFDAC) is advantageous.
• Fundraising Experience: Proven success in conducting funding rounds from pre-seed to Series A.
• Languages: Proficiency in English; fluency in German or French (minimum B2 level).
• Board Experience: Experience serving on Boards of Directors or as a startup advisor.

Core Competencies

• Entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to thrive in uncertain conditions.
• Systems thinking to connect technology with viable business models.
• Scientific aptitude to engage with stakeholders and translate scientific findings into business value.
• Strong fundraising skills, including presenting to investors, structuring rounds, and negotiating terms.
• Leadership skills to inspire teams and mentor founders.
• Cultural intelligence to collaborate across diverse cultures and regulatory environments.

Personal Qualities

• A passion for innovation and comfort with ambiguity and risk.
• Intellectual curiosity and adaptability to new fields.
• Resilience in decision-making.
• Integrity and alignment with European business values.
• A collaborative spirit in working with scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors.

Additional Advantages

• Experience within the Swiss biotech ecosystem.
• A network of contacts in the venture capital sector across Europe, MENA, and Africa.
• Scientific publications, patents, or experience with technology transfer.
• Understanding of healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with Swiss market standards.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including a pension plan (BVG/LPP).
• 5 weeks of annual vacation in compliance with Swiss legislation.
• Opportunities for professional development and international travel.
• A dynamic work environment driven by mission and purpose.
• A chance to positively impact healthcare advancements.
• A modern office atmosphere with flexible working arrangements.

Legal and Compliance Guidelines

• Work Authorization: Open to candidates holding valid Swiss work permits or EU/EFTA citizenship, unless extraordinary qualifications allow for work permit sponsorship.
• Equal Opportunity: LifeDX promotes diversity and is committed to an inclusive environment for all employees.
• Data Protection: Personal data processing is conducted in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP/DSG).