BD Manager

Clera is a seed-stage deeptech startup developing an advanced materials acceleration platform that combines physics-informed AI, robotics, and large-scale experimental data to compress R&D timelines in the energy and cleantech sectors.

• Bridge scientific capabilities and market needs to deliver scalable climate impact across a growing customer base;
• Collaborate with the VP of Commercial and senior leadership to operationalize and scale commercial efforts;
• Act as the primary connection between customers and internal teams, developing projects from initial scope through to signed agreement;
• Drive strategic sales efforts by researching and pursuing key commercial opportunities;
• Track pipeline movement and maintain a high-quality CRM overview with relevant reporting and analytics;
• Build and refine BD workflows, templates, and documentation to scale repeatable success;
• Identify customer needs, qualify inbound and outbound leads, and coordinate lead qualification across the team;
• Own post-deal activities, supporting partner onboarding and early-stage execution of new partnerships;
• Serve as the main point of contact to manage and deepen client relationships over time;
• Coordinate with technical and operations teams to ensure aligned, timely delivery on partner commitments;
• Identify upsell and expansion opportunities within existing accounts and new contacts;
• Represent the company at international exhibitions, trade fairs, and conferences, including delivering techno-commercial presentations.

• 3–5 Years of experience in international business development, account management, or technical sales, ideally in deep tech, advanced materials, or climate-related sectors;
• Demonstrated success in commercializing scientific or technical capabilities and translating them into tangible commercial outcomes;
• Proficiency with CRM systems and pipeline management tools such as Salesforce or similar;
• Proven ability to coordinate cross-functional delivery between sales, technical, and operations teams;
• Experience building BD workflows, templates, and documentation to support scalable, repeatable processes;
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally for client meetings and industry events;
• Fluency in English and German;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across internal and external stakeholders;
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and consistent follow-through;
• Comfort navigating ambiguity and moving quickly in an early-stage startup environment;
• Genuine interest in climate technology and science-driven innovation;
• Nice to have: Graduate-level education (MSc or PhD) in materials science, chemistry, physics, chemical engineering, or a closely related field, or an equivalent strong scientific background.

• Frequent international travel is expected;
• Visa sponsorship is not available.