About Us:
Prototypes for Humanity is a global platform and enabler of science-backed innovations. Operating from Dubai and working with a pool of thousands of leading academics from around the world, we promote and support the development of breakthrough innovations for environmental and social impact. We work closely with industry, government, and investors to bring great projects to life, across strategical fields impacting billions of people, from healthcare to energy transition, from food security to web3. Our job is to identify, onboard and co-build exciting venture with some of the world’s brightest young minds, from Dubai to the world.
Position Overview:
This role offers a truly unique opportunity to work at the core of Dubai’s innovation ecosystem, within a programme growing in reputation and funding, alongside the city’s leading government entities. We are seeking a highly skilled Sr. Manager for Venture Development Coordinator, with proven track record in venture-building and startup development support, and relevant experience in Dubai or UAE at large. Knowledge of science-backed ventures, academic spin outs, and IP transfer is highly advantageous. The ideal candidate will have experience in hands-on validating the commercial potential of new technologies, working alongside technical and business partners, supervising pilot programmes, and designing market launch roadmaps. He or she will also show in-depth understanding of legal agreements, funding mechanisms and VC engagement, and the practicalities of setting-up startups in Dubai.
Key Responsibilities:
- Evaluate markets and commercial opportunities for a wide range of science-backed projects
- Lead on venture development (from roadmap design to implementation) across several milestones: technical pilots, market validation, go-to-market, and growth
- Work directly with senior government and industry partners for the purpose of venture-building collaboration
- Conduct due diligence, market, and investment analysis
- Prospect commercial and technical and partnership opportunities in the UAE and overseas
- Present findings and recommendations to leadership and stakeholders.
Skills
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Degree from a reputable institution, MBA / Master and above preferred - or corresponding professional experience
- Minimum of 5 years of work experience, including direct relevant experience in related fields (venture studios, VCs, incubators, accelerators, M&A transactions, consultancy). Experience in startups, as staff or founder is equally relevant.
- Proven ability to deliver (plan and implement): financial analysis, opportunity assessment, startup creation and development roadmaps
- Ability to work independently and proactively in engaging with industry partners and founders
- Track-record in reviewing and tailoring legal documents belonging to the venture-building space (term sheets, investment agreements, SAFEs, etc.)
- Excellent communication and presentation-creation skills in English (Arabic is a plus)
- Strong ability to navigate between analytical tasks and stakeholder-facing activities
- Familiarity with IP and research-backed innovation is a plus