Startup Partner Manager, Manufacturing and Automotive

In this role, you will be responsible for building and nurturing partnerships with innovative startups in Physical AI, Manufacturing, and Automotive sectors across EMEA. You will identify and engage high‑potential startups, develop tailored programs, and provide guidance to accelerate their growth using advanced technology platforms. This position combines technical insight with business development, allowing you to act as a bridge between startups and a global technology ecosystem. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to share industry trends, provide tools and resources, and organise workshops to maximise adoption of cutting‑edge solutions. The role offers opportunities to shape the startup ecosystem, contribute to strategic growth initiatives, and make a tangible impact on emerging industries. Excellent communication, networking, and organisational skills will be essential to succeed.

Accountabilities

• Identify, engage, and recruit the most promising startups in Physical AI, Manufacturing, and Automotive sectors.
• Act as the voice of startup members, developing a deep understanding of their technical and business needs.
• Provide startups with content, tools, and guidance to leverage advanced technology platforms.
• Organise workshops, webinars, and other one‑to‑many activities to drive adoption and ecosystem engagement.
• Collaborate with venture‑capital partners and internal teams to support portfolio startups individually and at scale.
• Support alignment between startups, sales channels, and end customers to maximise growth opportunities.
• Track and report on ecosystem metrics, identifying high‑potential startups and scaling programmatic engagement.

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in startup accelerators, incubators, executive roles, platform ecosystem development, or venture capital.
• At least 5+ years experience with Physical AI, Manufacturing, or Automotive startups or corporate roles.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong technical affinity in Physical AI, Robotics, Manufacturing, and Automotive domains.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills; comfortable interacting with internal teams, partners, and startups.
• Creative, proactive, and highly organised, with strong project‑management skills.
• Willingness to travel domestically or internationally (up to 10 %).
• Ability to operate independently in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Preferred / Standout Qualifications

• Proven experience in AI, industrial production, or automotive technology.
• Established professional network of corporate, political decision‑makers and startups in EMEA.
• Experience in top startup accelerators or cloud providers managing startup ecosystems.
• Strong metrics‑driven mindset with the ability to measure programme effectiveness.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work remotely, with flexibility across multiple German locations.
• Exposure to a cutting‑edge technology ecosystem and high‑impact startup programmes.
• Career growth and professional development opportunities.
• Participation in industry events, workshops and networking activities.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment with cross‑functional teams.

Thank you for your interest!

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