Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

ZeQome AG | Zurich, Switzerland | Full-time (100%)

About ZeQome

ZeQome AG is a Swiss deep-tech startup on a mission to accelerate the reconstruction of neural connectomes through AI-driven automation.

We are developing technologies to make large-scale connectomics reconstruction faster, more scalable, and less dependent on manual intervention.

Our long-term vision extends beyond neuroscience research toward brain-inspired artificial intelligence and new possibilities for understanding and simulating biological intelligence.

The Role

We are seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer (COO) to work closely with our Founder & CEO in shaping ZeQome’s business strategy, building the organization, and driving its growth.

The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial leader with a proven track record of building and scaling businesses, navigating industry transformations, and leading high-performing teams. They combine strong commercial instincts, strategic vision, and exceptional communication skills to turn breakthrough scientific innovations into scalable business opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Corporate Strategy & Business Scaling

• Develop and execute the company's overall business and growth strategy.
• Translate long-term scientific and technological ambitions into actionable business plans and operating priorities.
• Identify commercialization opportunities and scalable business models for emerging AI technologies.
• Establish strategic objectives, operating metrics, and performance management frameworks.

2. Commercialization & Ecosystem Development

• Develop pathways to commercialize ZeQome's core technologies.
• Build long-term relationships with technology companies, research institutions, industry partners, and potential customers.
• Design strategic partnerships and business development initiatives.
• Evaluate opportunities for entering international markets and developing new business lines.
• Establish sustainable revenue models and a scalable commercial ecosystem.

3. Organization Building & Talent Development

• Design and implement ZeQome's organizational structure as the company grows.
• Lead executive recruitment and strategic workforce planning.
• Build and mentor multidisciplinary teams across business, operations, and technical functions.
• Establish an effective management culture emphasizing accountability, collaboration, and execution.
• Develop talent management and organizational performance processes.

4. Operational Leadership

• Oversee core business operations and execution of strategic initiatives.
• Establish scalable internal processes, governance structures, and management reporting.
• Coordinate with finance, legal, HR, and external professional advisors.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration and manage organizational priorities.

Qualifications

Required

• Demonstrated experience in building and leading large, cross-functional organizations, including recruiting talent, developing leadership teams, and establishing management structures.
• Demonstrated success in commercializing technology-driven products or services, with measurable achievements in market expansion, revenue growth, customer acquisition, or strategic business development.
• Proven track record of building and scaling businesses from an early stage, including developing business models, establishing commercial operations, launching new business lines, and driving sustainable revenue growth.
• Strong understanding of media, communications, and market dynamics, with the ability to translate complex technologies and business concepts into compelling value propositions for investors, strategic partners, customers, and broader audiences.

Preferred

• 20+ years of professional experience, including at least 10 years in senior leadership roles at high-growth technology companies.
• Background in media, public relations, or strategic communications, with a strong understanding of corporate storytelling
• Professional proficiency in Mandarin Chinese

What We Offer

• A senior executive leadership role in an ambitious Swiss AI startup.
• The opportunity to shape the company from an early stage.
• Close collaboration with the founder and an international technical team.
• Significant ownership of strategy, organizational development, and business operations.
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience and responsibilities.
• Potential long-term equity incentives.

Application

Please send your CV and a brief introduction outlining your executive leadership experience, key business achievements, and motivation for joining ZeQome to [email protected].