Seeing beyond - future of medical technology
For more than 100 years, ZEISS medical technology has been driving progress in ophthalmology and microsurgery. In ophthalmology, our solutions help to maintain and improve people's vision at every stage of their lives. In microsurgery, our solutions enable targeted interventions on diseased tissue so that small and sensitive organs continue to function optimally.
Medical technology from ZEISS supports medical professionals in improving the lives of patients worldwide. The fact that our actions have a direct impact on people's well-being is what drives us every day.
Your Role
Develop and execute the external innovation and growth strategy in alignment with corporate objectives, in close collaboration with internal business stakeholders and in accordance with established governance processes
Systematically identify, analyze, and assess relevant markets, technologies, and external growth opportunities
Drive strategic business development initiatives to translate external innovations, partnerships, and investment opportunities into business impact for the portfolio of ZEISS
Lead and manage external M&A, venturing, and strategic partnership initiatives, which represent the core focus of the role
Serve as a strategic advisor to the SBU Head, including preparation of executive and board-level meetings, development of presentations, and delivery of special projects (approximately 20–30% of the role)
Provide disciplinary and functional leadership to a dedicated team (currently two direct reports), ensuring performance management, professional development, and alignment with strategic priorities
Your Profile
University degree in Management, Business Administration, Medicine, Engineering, or a related STEM field; an MBA or equivalent advanced qualification is highly desirable, a PhD is considered a strong plus
Several years of professional experience in a strategic, investment, or business development role, ideally with exposure to startups, venture capital, M&A, corporate venturing, or innovation-driven environments
Initial leadership experience combined with a strong people, team, and stakeholder orientation
In-depth understanding of the medical technology industry, including market dynamics, applications, and value chains
Strong strategic and analytical skills combined with a hands-on, execution-driven mindset to assess growth opportunities and drive business impact
Proven experience in leading and/or executing complex strategic projects in a corporate or entrepreneurial context
Outstanding communication skills with the ability to engage credibly at executive level, both in written materials and verbal interactions
Fluency in English, both written and spoken; fluency in German is a strong advantage
Your ZEISS Recruiting Team:
Sabrina Rieker