Entrepreneur in Residence for a multi-wavelength light engine spin-off 

At the joint photonics research lab of imec and UGent, we have created a high-power, cost-efficient, multi-wavelength light engine with clear potential for broad market impact. We are now preparing to spin out a new company to commercialize this technology. To drive this venture, we are seeking a proven entrepreneurial leader with deep expertise in optical interconnects, laser systems, and integrated photonics, and with strong connectivity across the datacenter ecosystem.

The assignment

• Serve as co-founder of the spin-off, partnering closely with the technical and commercial co-founders to define and drive the company’s business strategy and build the initial delivery organization.
• Develop a robust, investor-ready business plan, map out staged funding requirements, and lead all fundraising activities across early rounds.
• Translate the technology vision into a clear, evidence-based product development roadmap through direct engagement with industry leaders, partners, and prospective customers.
• Oversee all operational and business activities required to bring the company to incorporation and early execution.
• Own the company’s P&L and take on a broad scope of responsibilities typical of an early-stage venture, including strategy, operations, financing, HR, and go-to-market.
• Build and maintain a deep, current understanding of the relevant markets and cultivate a strong industry network that accelerates product adoption and partnership development.
  
  

Required knowledge and skills

• You are an enthusiastic entrepreneurial CEO or business leader with proven experience in building a new company in the datacom or telecom space.
• You have hands-on experience commercializing lasers, optical interconnects or photonics engines including engaging with the photonics fabrication value chain.
• You possess outstanding organizational and leadership skills demonstrated by guiding high-caliber teams to deliver on ambitious targets within defined timelines and budgets.
• You have proven fundraising experience across venture capital and non-dilutive grants mechanisms.
• You are a clear, confident communicator with strong public speaking ability and the capacity to translate complex technical and strategic topics into compelling narratives for expert and non-expert audiences.
• You are familiar with core business functions such as sales, marketing, finance, IP, etc. Hands-on exposure to these is a plus.
• You have a well-developed network of prospective optical datacom customers and / or venture investors
• You have international working experience and are fluent in written and spoken English. 

What we offer

• Duration of the assignment: Assignment by imec until the incorporation of the spin-off.
• Desired start date: 2nd of January 2026
• Work regime: part-time

Location

We provide the flexibility to work both from our office premises and remotely from home. This to maintain a healthy work-life balance while being an integral part of our team.

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*For this temporary position, you can apply as a candidate, the employment is then through an employment agency or other third party. If you are a Freelancer (independent consultant) we also welcome your application.