Vice President of Operations / Chief of Staff at a Deep Tech Startup
Directs operational strategy and execution to transform technical innovation into scalable business infrastructure.
Overview
The role involves orchestrating the complex logistical and organizational demands of a startup solving fundamental scientific or engineering problems. Daily activity centers on removing bottlenecks for technical teams, overseeing specialized facilities, and managing capital-intensive supply chains. It requires a high degree of adaptability to pivot between high-level investor relations and the granular details of laboratory or factory floor operations.
Success in this field depends on the ability to translate technical progress into operational roadmaps that satisfy board members and regulatory bodies. The rhythm is fast-paced and high-stakes, as operational errors can directly impact research timelines or safety protocols. Professionals who thrive here possess a mix of business acumen and technical literacy, enabling them to lead teams through the uncertainty of pre-revenue growth phases.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement scalable operational systems for finance, human resources, and internal communications.
- Manage the relationship between engineering milestones and budget allocations to ensure capital efficiency.
- Lead fundraising preparation by coordinating due diligence materials and performance data for investors.
- Oversee facility management and the procurement of specialized equipment or laboratory supplies.
- Facilitate cross-departmental coordination to ensure technical development aligns with market entry strategies.
- Draft and refine internal policies to maintain regulatory compliance within specific industry frameworks.
- Identify and mitigate operational risks related to safety, intellectual property, and supply chain disruptions.
Qualifications
- Prior leadership experience in a high-growth startup or a technical engineering environment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with significant budgetary and safety responsibilities.
- Strong analytical skills for interpreting financial statements and technical performance metrics.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interfacing with boards and technical staff.
- Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related scientific field.
Nice to have
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) from a top-tier institution.
- Experience managing Series B or Series C fundraising rounds for hardware or life sciences companies.
- Familiarity with specific regulatory standards such as ISO, FDA, or FAA requirements.
Work environment
- Primary work is conducted on-site to ensure proximity to laboratory or manufacturing facilities.
- The culture is typically characterized by a sense of urgency and a focus on scientific rigor.
- Standard working hours often expand to accommodate critical product launches or funding deadlines.
- Standard tools include enterprise resource planning software and project management suites.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation typically includes a significant equity stake to align interests with long-term company value.
- Professional development often involves direct mentorship from experienced founders and venture capital partners.
- Career progression pathways lead toward Chief Operating Officer (COO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) roles.
- Opportunities for high visibility within the deep tech ecosystem and broader investment community.
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