Chief Business Development Officer

The organisation

VitalFluid was founded in 2014 by Paul Leenders and Polo van Ooij. Paul, a creative entrepreneur with a background in chemistry and Polo, electrical engineer from Eindhoven University, met during their joint research on plasma technology. They recognized the value of plasma technology and its suitability for a variety of sustainable applications and decided to dedicate their professional careers to unlocking its enormous potential. They joined forces, together with Eindhoven University of Technology and VitalFluid was born.

VitalFluid is a typical start-up moving towards scale-up phase, with all the typical characteristics. The organisation needs clear (market) strategy with focus on executing the right projects. Also knowing what not to do. Expectations of CBDO is to be able to provide clear market driven criteria for setting out course and decisions on what projects to take on and execute from start
to end. Also is expected from CBDO to contribute to alignment of organisation and individuals on strategy, goals, and projects.

VitalFluid needs to makeshift from technical push to market pull. Technology is proven and available, focus on market (development) is required. CBDO is expected to be able to provide solid business cases for route to market and align rest of organisational goals, targets, and tasks. CBDO is expected to be able to provide leadership skills to get management team onboard on clear strategy. CBDO should have excellent project management skills.

Mission
Driven by our passion for technology and desire to contribute to a sustainable world, we are dedicated to enable sustainable food production by providing clean alternatives for existing nitrogen nutrients and agrochemical inputs like pesticides and fertilizers.

Vision
To be world leader in development of plasma activated water solutions in close cooperation with the leading market players.

Strategy
Our strategy is to focus on sustainable solutions for agriculture applications. Our main focus is on the development and market introduction of PAW as solution for natural plant protection. Other applications like sustainable fertilizer can be developed based on a solid business case. In parallel we continue to work on application of plasma in other domains, like medical and cleaning. We are global leader in plasma activated water applications.

The position

We are now searching for a Chief Business Development Officer.

As the Chief Business Development Officer (CBDO) for our AgTech company, you will play a pivotal role in driving our growth strategy, fostering strategic partnerships, and expanding our market presence. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for identifying and capitalizing on business opportunities, creating and executing strategic initiatives, and building
relationships with key stakeholders in the agriculture and technology sectors.

Tasks & responsibilities

Most important key roles
1. Business Strategy

• Develop and implement the overall business development strategy aligned with the company's goals and objectives
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities, including market trends, partnerships, and potential acquisitions

2. Market Expansion

• Lead market research efforts to identify untapped opportunities and emerging trends in the AgTech industry
• Develop and execute plans to expand the company's market presence and customer base globally

3. Partnership Development

• Build and nurture strategic partnerships with key players in the agriculture and technology ecosystems.
• Collaborate with external organizations, research institutions, and industry leaders to enhance the company's technological capabilities and market position.

4. Revenue Generation

• Drive revenue growth through the development and execution of effective sales and marketing strategies.
• Explore and negotiate licensing agreements, joint ventures, and other business arrangements to maximize revenue streams.

5. Team Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing business development team, providing guidance, mentorship, and support.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the business development department.

6. Risk Management

• Identify potential risks and challenges in the market and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Stay abreast of regulatory changes and industry dynamics that may impact business development initiatives.

7. Communication and Reporting

• Regularly communicate business development progress, achievements, and challenges to the executive team and board of directors.
• Prepare and present comprehensive reports and analyses to support decision-making processes

Candidate profile

Qualifications

• Proven track record in senior leadership roles within the AgTech or related industries.
• Strong understanding of agricultural technologies, market trends, and competitive landscapes.
• Demonstrated success in building and managing strategic partnerships.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically, make data-driven decisions, and drive results.
• Minimum bachelor's degree in business, agriculture, technology, or a related field; MBA preferred.

Further additional relevant information:

• This is a strategic/commercial role at senior level
• Focused on US + UK market
• Knowledge from and experience with pesticide registration process
• Having a wide network in relevant value chain and able to find the right channels for sales and distribution
• Map out a route to market for the medium and long term
• Able and willing to sell the concept short-term to key accounts
• 1st focus on greenhouse horticulture, not the end goal

Characteristics

• C-level level
• Sparring partner CEO
• Sales, service and distribution network
• Understand end market
• Commitment
• International
• Start-up/scale up experience is an advantage

The offer

Indication of yearly salary: €100.000 and other good benefits. Excellent stock options package. Location for the job is Eindhoven. Frequent travel is part of the job.

Interested?

You can apply for this position by using the form below. For more information contact Wilko Grievink, Tel: +31 (0) 6-5536 2253.