Business Development Associate

Kurz zusammengefasst

Proxima Fusion, Europe's fastest‑growing fusion company and the first spin‑out from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, is building the hardware and infrastructure for the world's first commercial stellarator power plant. Backed by more than €650 million and operating across Munich, Zurich and Oxford, the firm combines stellarator optimisation, advanced computation, machine learning and high‑temperature superconducting magnets to create next‑generation machines called Alpha and Stellaris. The Business Development Associate will join the Business Development team, which identifies and executes both inorganic (acquisitions, minority stakes, joint ventures) and organic (new product lines) opportunities that will eventually enable Proxima to sell fusion electricity in the late 2030s. On a daily basis the associate will own the front end of the deal funnel. This includes producing market reports, competitive analyses and company mappings that inform investment decisions. The role also requires drafting decision memos and business cases that guide go/no‑go votes from senior leadership and the board, while collaborating closely with engineers to ensure technical realism. Managing deal workstreams is another core task: leading expert calls, conducting reference checks, and screening data rooms. The associate will also help shape the function's roadmap, introduce AI tools to accelerate research and drafting, and continuously source new opportunities by attending conferences and industry events. The position demands proven deal execution experience of two to three years in tier‑1 strategy consulting, private equity, venture capital or a fast‑moving startup, preferably with exposure to industrial, energy or advanced‑manufacturing sectors. A STEM background, such as engineering, physics, mathematics or a comparable discipline, is required, as is the ability to work fluently with technical teams. Candidates must demonstrate strong problem‑solving judgment, capable of structuring ambiguous questions, performing analysis and delivering clear recommendations independently. Excellent market modelling, valuation and memo‑writing skills are essential, as is clear, confident communication in English, both written and spoken. German language ability is considered a plus. Proxima offers a chance to tackle some of the most complex technology challenges in clean energy while working alongside a high‑performing, diverse team of scientists, engineers, lawyers and business professionals. The role sits within the CFO organisation, reporting to the Business Development Lead and the Head of Business Operations, and collaborates closely with finance, legal and supply‑chain functions. The company emphasises a startup mindset, proactivity, attention to detail and comfort with rapid change, making it an ideal environment for ambitious individuals eager to contribute to Europe's fusion ambition. What the role asks for: - 2‑3 years deal execution experience in consulting, PE, VC or startup - STEM degree (engineering, physics, mathematics or similar) - Fluent English (written and spoken) - Strong market modelling and memo‑writing skills - Ability to lead deal workstreams and build business cases - German language proficiency (nice‑to‑have)