Business Operations Manager
Join us in shaping the future of materials!
We are a fast-growing startup from ETH Zurich pioneering sustainable biomaterials made from microorganisms. We're on a mission to replace petroleum-based additives with high-performance, renewable alternatives. If you're passionate about innovation and want to make a real-world impact, this role is for you.
Key Responsibilities:
- Finance & Business Planning – You’ll be the go-to person for financial visibility and operational clarity.
- Execute financial operations, including P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow management, budgeting, reporting, and management control (budget vs actual)
- Coordinate with external accounting partners to ensure compliance and accuracy
- Develop strategic business planning and prepare materials for investor updates, fundraising, and public grant application/reporting
- Contribute to the development of KPIs and the continuous improvement of internal processes
- Go-to-Market & Sales Enablement – You’ll be instrumental in shaping how we bring our materials to market and win our deals.
- Identify Ideal Customer Profiles for key verticals (e.g., packaging, cosmetics)
- Drive early-stage traction: from outreach and qualification to quoting and deal closing
- Collaborate on pricing strategy and value proposition refinement
- Marketing & Communication – Help us build our brand and create visibility in the right places.
- Coordinate Treeless’ presence at trade fairs and industry events
- Contribute to the development and execution of the B2B marketing strategy
- Cross-functional Collaboration – You’ll work closely with the founding team, engineers, and advisors—facilitating smooth information flow and jumping in wherever needed to help the team succeed.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Economics, Engineering Management, or similar
- 2–4 years of relevant experience in business operations, finance, or business development in fast-paced environments
- Solid track record in managing or implementing financial reporting (P&L, BS, CF), budgeting, and management control
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (German is a strong plus)
- Proficiency with spreadsheets and business planning tools
Nice to have:
- Experience in fundraising
- Exposure to deeptech, materials science, or sustainability sectors
- Familiarity with public grant applications and reporting
Soft skills & mindset
- Entrepreneurial spirit: you’re not afraid to take initiative and wear multiple hats
- Strategic thinker with hands-on execution abilities
- Excellent collaboration and communication skills across functions and roles
- Curious, proactive, open to feedback, and eager to learn
- Strong sense of ownership, precision, and accountability
- Enjoys being part of a growing team and contributing to a positive, energetic company culture
What we offer
We offer a key role in a fast-moving, purpose-driven startup, working on hands-on projects at the forefront of material science with space to advance your career as we explore new application frontiers. You'll access a powerful network of industry experts, investors, and advisors. You’ll enjoy a flexible, collaborative, and inspiring work environment and the support of a motivated team driven by impact and innovation.
Location: Zurich / Greater Zurich Area.
Start Date: To be agreed on, around September 2025
Language: English (German is a plus)
Workload: 60-100%, candidates must be eligible to work in Switzerland
How to Apply
If this opportunity excites you and you believe you’d be a great fit, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV, a short cover letter, and any relevant references to Write an email
