About Ignite Next
Ignite Next is Europe's scale-up program for deep tech innovation, founded by the former Intel Ignite leadership team and now independently operated. We accelerate early-stage, high-impact startups developing breakthrough technologies in semiconductors, physical AI, advanced computing, and other frontier domains.
Non-dilutive and founder-first, Ignite Next works with leading technology companies---including Infineon, Intel, and Synopsys---to connect startups with world-class technical and business expertise, turning breakthrough innovation into breakout success. We are headquartered in Dresden, Germany, at the heart of Silicon Saxony.
The Role
As Chief of Staff at Ignite Next, you own the operational engine behind the program. Events, partner delivery, program operations, finance, people, communications --- if it needs to run reliably and at a high bar, it's yours. This is a hands-on, high-ownership role working directly with the founding team.
Your Responsibilities
- Own the end-to-end program experience for each cohort
- Plan and execute owned events and manage our presence at industry events
- Build ecosystem partnerships and curate the perks program for portfolio companies
- Manage corporate and ecosystem partner deliverables, reporting, and communications
- Drive consistent communications across newsletter, social media, and PR
- Own recruiting operations, performance processes, and lead interns
- Keep finance, office, contracts, and travel running smoothly
- Use AI and automation to continuously optimize your own workload
What We're Looking For
- 2--3 years at a consulting firm or equivalent as Chief of Staff / Head of Ops at a Series A+ startup
- Excellent communication skills in German and English
- Structured thinker, comfortable with frameworks like pyramid principle and MECE
- Strong command of Office, SaaS tools, and AI
- AI-first mindset --- you actively use AI to work faster and stay curious about what's next
- Hands-on, pragmatic, exceptionally organized, high ownership
- Confident presenting to and moderating senior audiences
- Full-time, hybrid (Munich office), with travel to Dresden and all across Europe
Nice to Have
- Experience with early-stage startups or accelerators
- Background in technology, engineering, or science
- Network in European deep tech or VC
- Event management or community building experience
What to Expect
- A front-row seat to cutting-edge deep tech innovation across Europe
- Direct interaction with world-class founders, investors, and industry leaders
- A small, agile team where your contributions have immediate impact
- Hybrid work with Munich as home base (office in Türkenstr. 55)
- Lunchit, Wellpass, mobility allowance, MacBook, AirPods, mobile plan support
- Competitive compensation with performance-based bonuses
- A clear growth trajectory into program leadership, partner management, or platform roles