Are you passionate about corporate innovation, startup ecosystems, and business development? Do you thrive at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and strategy, helping corporations discover and collaborate with high-potential startups? Are you ready to take on a leadership role in shaping the future of open innovation? We are looking for a Manager, Innovation & Business Development to launch our team in Berlin. In this role, you will be a key driver of corporate innovation projects, startup scouting, and ecosystem engagement, while also leading business development efforts to expand Plug and Play’s network of partners. You will work closely with corporate clients to identify strategic innovation opportunities, execute impactful programs, and foster high-value startup collaborations. This is a unique opportunity for someone with strong leadership skills, business acumen, and a passion for driving global innovation. About Plug and Play Tech Center Plug and Play Tech Center (PNPTC) is the world’s largest open innovation platform, with 60 locations worldwide. We support leading corporations with their innovation efforts by strategizing innovation and connecting them with break-through startups to drive joint innovation and strategic growth. Our mission is to bring Silicon Valley’s innovation mindset to companies and governments worldwide. Our Berlin office serves as a key European innovation hub, driving corporate partnerships in industries such as sustainability, new materials, manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing. Your Role As Manager of open Innovation and business Development, you will lead corporate innovation programs, build relationships with startups and ecosystem players, and drive new business opportunities to expand Plug and Play’s innovation platform. You will act as a strategic partner to corporate clients, guiding them in defining innovation priorities, structuring programs, and engaging with the startup ecosystem to create real business impact. This role requires a mix of strategic thinking, relationship management, and sales expertise, making it ideal for someone who can bridge the gap between corporates, startups, and investors. Key Responsibilities Business Development & Sales Drive new business opportunities by identifying and engaging corporate prospects interested in innovation programs. Lead proposal development, pitch presentations, and contract negotiations with potential clients. Work closely with internal teams to refine Plug and Play’s innovation offerings, pricing strategies, and market positioning. Track business development activities, ensuring smooth pipeline management and follow-ups. Corporate Innovation Leadership Lead open innovation projects for corporate partners, helping them define challenges, scout relevant startups, and facilitate pilots. Develop and execute startup collaboration strategies, ensuring measurable outcomes. Support corporate clients in navigating the startup ecosystem and implementing new business models, technologies, and partnerships. Organize and moderate innovation workshops, pitch events, and co-creation sessions with startups and corporate leaders. Ecosystem & Relationship Building Establish and maintain strong relationships with key players in the startup and venture ecosystem, including VCs, accelerators, and innovation hubs. Represent Plug and Play at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to strengthen our presence in the innovation community. Collaborate with startups and scaleups to facilitate connections with corporate partners and create mutually beneficial engagements. Qualifications 5 years of experience in business development, management consulting or startup ecosystems. Strong understanding of corporate innovation strategies, startup collaboration models, and emerging technology trends. Proven track record in business development, sales, or partnership management, ideally in the innovation or tech industry. Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage corporate executives and startup founders alike. Experience leading open innovation projects, startup scouting, or venture collaboration initiatives. Excellent presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to craft compelling pitches and proposals. Fluent in English and German (additional languages are a plus). Willingness to travel occasionally for client meetings and ecosystem engagements. Why Join Us? Take a leadership role and develop one of Europe’s most exciting innovation hubs. Innovation is your “bread and butter” Work at the intersection of blue chip companies, great startups, and other investors, driving impactful innovation projects. Gain exposure to top global corporations and cutting-edge startups. Be part of a fast-growing, international team with strong career growth opportunities.