Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer
Setúbal
Setúbal, Setubal, Portugal

We are a Portuguese biotechnology company pioneering the circular transformation of agricultural products into value, sustainable‑based materials and specialty ingredients. By combining biochemical engineering, sustainable process design, and industrial innovation, we are developing scalable technologies that convert waste streams into commercially viable and environmentally responsible products.

Opportunity

As the company advances from R&D and scale validation to scale production, we are seeking a CEO to lead the execution and operational growth of the company’s activities in Portugal. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced industrial leader to build and manage the company’s first scale operations, ensuring technical excellence, operational efficiency, and readiness for commercial output. The CEO will be responsible for turning proven technology into consistent, quality, and effective production.

Leadership Context

The company is led by its two founders, who will continue to focus on business development, fundraising, and international expansion. The current CEO and founder will remain actively engaged as a major investor and strategic advisor, providing ongoing support to the new CEO. The incoming CEO will work closely with the founders to translate strategic goals into operational performance and establish a robust industrial base in Portugal as the foundation for future global growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the industrial up and full operationalization of production facilities in Portugal.
• Oversee all technical, operational, and organizational functions of the company.
• Drive commercial readiness and ensure the company reaches its first revenue milestones.
• Achieve digit annual sales in Portugal within the initial growth phase.
• Ensure quality, safety, and environmental compliance across all activities.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and supplier/contractor relationships to achieve production and revenue targets on time and within budget.
• Foster a performance culture focused on execution, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with the Board and founders to align operational execution with company objectives and expansion plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Industrial Biotechnology, or a related technical field (Ph
  D preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in process up, industrial production, or operations management , ideally within biotech, tech, or clean technology sectors. Proven track record in industrial project leadership, technical team management, and process optimization.
• Strong understanding of chemical process design, equipment engineering, and industrial safety regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to align technical and business objectives.
• Experience collaborating with senior stakeholders and Boards of Directors on strategic planning and expansion.
• Passion for sustainability, innovation, and the circular economy.

Location

Portugal

Reports to

Board of Directors / Founders

Type

Full-time, site

Compensation

EUR 4, 500-7, 000 monthly (depending on experience) + equity option