Chief Executive Officer - Photonics

Role: Chief Executive Officer

Industry: Photonics

Location: North-West England (hybrid)

Our client is a VC-backed startup developing disruptive photonics sensor technology. The company’s core capability is a platform technology with applications in a range of markets, which will deliver revenue through both hardware and software sales.

Having closed an oversubscribed seed round, led by one of the UK’s most prominent deep-tech investors, this innovative company is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to spearhead its expansion strategy, driving the journey from early commercialisation to global impact.

The CEO will be joining at a formative stage, with responsibility for providing strategic leadership, shaping the vision, and executing the business plan. As such, it requires an experienced individual with a strong track record of navigating the early-stage trajectory, taking startups from spin-out/proof-of-concept through to successful commercialisation.

The ideal candidate will be a proven leader who will have previously raised Series A (and/or later-stage) funding. They will possess a background in spectroscopy, photonics, or electronics (MEMS, semiconductors), managing product sets that encompass both hardware and software information delivery.

In return, this is an opportunity to helm a groundbreaking business on an exciting growth path. Our client has a robust scientific pedigree, strong IP, visionary leadership and a clear commercialisation strategy. Therefore, for the right individual, this should be a career-defining role with significant scope for professional and financial reward.

A competitive package will be offered, including equity participation.

For more information, contact emma@upscalepartners.com