Startup and Equity Manager; f​/m​/d

For more than 50 years, Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH has been successfully responsible for technology transfer for the Max Planck Society (MPG). As Germany's most successful basic research institution, the MPG conducts world-renowned cutting-edge research. Inventions emerging from this top-level research form the basis for innovative products and services realized through licensing or company spin-offs. In doing so, we fulfill an important and socially relevant mission: transferring the results of basic research into economically and socially beneficial projects and spin-offs.

To strengthen our startup team, we are looking for a Startup and Equity Manager (f/m/d) (full-time), ideally starting December 1, 2026,

to support scientists from the Max Planck Institutes (MPIs) in founding deep-tech companies and managing equity holdings in these spin-offs.

Identifying and evaluating new startup projects, particularly deep-tech ventures, at the respective MPIs

Evaluating startup projects regarding their scientific and commercial viability

Advising and supporting founders in business model development and validation, as well as business and financial planning in preparation for a spin-off and within the Max!mize incubation program

Providing guidance on conducting market and competitor analyses

Supporting founder teams in validation activities (both internally and through external funding programs)

Identifying industry experts, co-founders, and management or team members for the startups

Facilitating investor contacts for founder teams and portfolio companies

Executing equity investments and financing agreements

Active portfolio management for existing shareholdings

As an ideal candidate (m/f/d), you meet the following requirements:

Successfully completed university degree (preferably with a doctorate) in physics, chemistry, or engineering, ideally complemented by an MBA or master’s degree in business administration with a very sound technical understanding and keen interest in deep-tech topics

Ideally at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, very preferably with your own entrepreneurial experience

Broad technical understanding and in-depth knowledge in the areas of company formation, business model development, corporate finance, and, where applicable, equity management

Team player qualities, willingness to travel, and strong communication skills, particularly when interacting with scientific staff as well as the administrative and leadership levels of the institutes supported

A very independent, strategic, and solution- and goal-oriented working style

High social competence, team spirit, confident demeanor, motivational talent, and assertiveness

Desirable:
Experience and a professional network in the fields of project management, management consulting, incubators/accelerators, and venture capital

The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of being converted to a permanent contract.

Remuneration is based on the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD Bund) depending on qualifications.

• company pension scheme
• discounted Jobticket
• centrally located office close to Munich Central Station
• option to work partially from home

Further information on how your personal data is handled and the public key for download can be found at this link:

Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH (MI) is responsible for the technology transfer of the Max Planck Society (MPG). As Germany's most successful basic research institution, the MPG conducts world-renowned cutting-edge research.