Job Description
About Kipu Quantum
Kipu Quantum is a German startup focused on quantum computing, with offices in Karlsruhe and Berlin. We specialize in developing quantum algorithms tailored for specific applications and hardware. Our solutions help various industries, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, logistics, and finance, to tackle complex problems using existing quantum hardware. We aim to make practical quantum computing accessible by significantly reducing the time needed to achieve quantum advantage for real-world applications.
Investors
In December 2023, Kipu Quantum successfully raised €10.5 million in a seed funding round led by HV Capital and DeepTech & Climate Fonds. This funding will support the development of our hardware-specific quantum algorithms and accelerate the commercialization of our quantum solutions.
Founders & Leadership
Daniel Volz, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder: Daniel has a strategic consulting and corporate development background. He has experience working at BASF SE and McKinsey & Company, where he focused on quantum computing and various industry sectors.
Enrique Solano, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder: Enrique is a physicist with an esteemed academic career spanning multiple countries. He has made significant contributions to quantum computing and explores interdisciplinary fields that merge arts, science, and technology.
Tobias Grab, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-Founder: Tobias is a scientist and experienced entrepreneur who founded an organic semiconductor company that was acquired by Samsung in 2021. He is responsible for overseeing operations and strategy at Kipu Quantum.
Your role
As the Head of Sales (m/f/d) at Kipu Quantum, you will play a crucial role as an executive leadership team member. Your main objective will be to drive revenue growth, expand the company's market presence, and develop its sales strategy. Your contribution:
- Leading the go-to-market efforts
- Establishing strategic partnerships
- Positioning Kipu as a leader in the field of Quantum Computing
We are looking for a dynamic leader with a proven track record in enterprise sales. The ideal candidate will have experience scaling sales organizations and managing complex sales cycles in innovative markets. Key qualifications include expertise in Land & Expand strategies, conducting PoC engagements, and familiarity with platform business models.
Your responsibilities
- Strategy Development: Design and implement a comprehensive sales strategy for our products, including MVPs (algorithms as a service, platform memberships) and Proof of Concept (PoC) projects, aligning with Kipu's goals. Capitalizes on market opportunities, define and refine Ideal Customer Profiles (ICPs) across various industries, including finance, life sciences, logistics, and energy
- Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing sales team of 3 to 6 full-time employees (FTEs), promoting innovation, collaboration, and accountability
- Customer Acquisition: Drive the acquisition of strategic, high-value customers, including enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions - lead negotiations for complex, high-value deals to ensure favorable terms and cultivate strong relationships
- Sales Process Optimization: Establish scalable processes for forecasting, pipeline management, and performance metrics tailored to our business models. Utilize sales technologies, such as HubSpot, to enhance workflows and analytics
- Market Expansion: Expand Kipu's global presence by establishing relationships with enterprise customers and other strategic partners
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with internal teams to align offerings with customer needs and provide valuable market insights
- Goal Setting: Set and monitor sales goals to ensure they align with the broader business objectives
- At least three years of sales leadership experience, preferably in an early-stage startup or deep-tech environment, with a proven track record of managing and closing complex deals (with sales cycles ranging from 3 to 12 months and deal sizes between €50,000 and €500,000)
- Proven track record of scaling sales organizations and achieving significant revenue growth. Strong understanding of enterprise sales cycles for both advanced and emerging technologies
- Deep knowledge of quantum computing concepts and their potential applications
- Proficient in using sales tools and CRM platforms for effective pipeline management and analytics
- Exceptional relationship-building skills, with the ability to connect effectively with clients, partners, and stakeholders at all levels
- Completed studies in Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Material Science or comparable qualifications; an MBA or advanced degree would be an advantage
- Excellent proficiency in English (C2 level). German (C1–C2 level) is a significant plus
- Experience in influencing marketing activities such as demand generation, inbound marketing, public relations, or event marketing is not mandatory but would be ideal
- At Kipu Quantum, you have a unique opportunity to shape the future of technology by contributing to one of the most exciting startups in quantum computing. Your work will have a lasting impact as we tackle groundbreaking challenges and redefine what is possible in this cutting-edge field
- We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative, international culture where openness, transparency, and innovation thrive. Here, you will be part of a team that genuinely cares about our work and each other
- Your growth matters to us. With ample opportunities for individual development, you can sharpen your skills, advance your career, and explore new horizons within a fast-paced and supportive environment
- Enjoy the flexibility to balance your professional and personal life with our adaptable working hours and remote-friendly options
- We also believe in making work life enjoyable. From regular team events that foster connections to perks like contributions toward public transport or shopping vouchers, international remote work opportunities, 30 vacation days per year and more, we are committed to creating a workplace where you can thrive