Associate Director of Business Development

About ZymoChem

ZymoChem is breakthrough science for a fossil-free future.  We accelerate the transition to a real-zero economy by developing bio-based materials for everyday products.  Our platform is powered by proprietary carbon conserving (C2) microbes that convert renewable feedstocks into high-value materials while radically minimizing CO2 loss during the production phase.  

ZymoChem recently closed a $21 million Series A round of fundraising to support the launch of our first high-performance material and to advance our first partnered product to commercial scale.  In addition to this funding from premier domestic & international venture capital firms, we are also supported by existing revenues from commercial partnerships with world-leading companies and funding from multiple government awards, including a 2023 $4MM grant from the Department of Energy. 

With a plan to double our team in 2024-25, we seek candidates who are motivated by science & innovation and have a passion to push the boundaries of materials performance.  We are collaborative, multidisciplinary, and relentlessly committed to creating a chemicals, materials, and products industry in tune with the 21st century. 

Our Mission: To catalyze a real-zero economy with drop-in, bio-based solutions.

Our Vision: To live in a world in which the goods we depend on every day are bio-manufactured from 100% renewable materials and designed for a sustainable economy - without compromise.

Our Values: Lead with Compassion, Aspire Collectively, Evolve Continuously, Innovate with Impact, Scale Sustainably

Position Summary

ZymoChem is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Associate Director of Business Development to lead strategic initiatives, build key partnerships, and drive revenue growth. This leader will play a critical role in establishing and expanding ZymoChem’s footprint in the hygiene and non-hygience industries, leveraging expertise in sales, application development, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate has experience in business development or application development, an extensive network in the hygiene and non-hygience industry, and a proven ability to develop products, market solutions, and manage complex sales cycles. This position has an option to work remotely. 

Responsibilities

• Drive the adoption and commercialization of Bio SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) technology in the hygiene and non hygiene industries.
• Build and maintain relationships with potential customers and key decision-makers to close deals.
• Negotiate and close new business opportunities while considering and collaborating with the executive management team, IP and legal team to ensure ZymoChem technology is protected. 
• Collaborate with R&D and manufacturing teams to align product offerings with market needs and identify new potential markets.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure scalability and alignment of production capabilities with customer demands.
• Actively reach out to and engage with industry stakeholders to develop long-term business relationships.
• Represent ZymoChem at trade shows, industry events, and conferences to build brand awareness.
• Develop and execute business strategies to achieve revenue and market share goals.
• Identify new market opportunities and partnerships to expand ZymoChem’s presence across relevant industries.
• Potentially, build sales teams as the company grows. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications 

• Requires Masters degree in Business, Marketing, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in business development, application development, or sales, with a strong focus on the absorbent polymer industry.
• Extensive network of contacts within the hygiene and non-hygiene or related industries.
• Proven track record of successfully selling and marketing products, particularly SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) or related technologies.
• Strong understanding of product development and manufacturing processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to build lasting relationships.
• Comfortable with traveling for business 30% to 50% of the time. 
• Ability to act proactively, independently, and with a high degree of adaptability
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills among many stakeholders and levels in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong computer skills including MS Office, Google Suite, and familiarity with Zoom, Visio, and Slack preferred
• Excellent time management skills, effective with multitasking, and an adept ability to improvise work plans while maintaining efficiency
• Ability to safely move up to 15 lbs between locations
• Ability to follow safety protocols and procedures

Culture and Benefits

ZymoChem offers full-time employees a competitive base salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company culture that’s collaborative, multidisciplinary, and committed to a big vision for positively impacting the world. We seek candidates who are motivated by our mission and are equally passionate toward pushing the boundaries to build a sustainable future. Located in the vibrant East Bay area of San Francisco, our headquarters are housed at Gate 510, a state-of-the-facility with many in-house and nearby amenities.

Full-time opportunities at ZymoChem come with: 

• Competitive salary range of $150,000 to $190,000 depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package includes company stock options, 401(k) retirement plan (includes a corporate match), medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverage, and life and long-term disability insurance.
• Additional benefits include FSA, commuter, and supplemental life insurance.
• Flexible time off policy with 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) per year and 11 paid company holidays per year.
• Relocation assistance may be agreed upon as well.

If this opportunity sounds exciting and aligns with your career aspirations, we want to hear from you!  Please send your resume/CV and a cover letter through our website job posting.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. ZymoChem may agree to sponsor an individual for an employment visa immediately or in the future if there is a shortage of individuals with particular skills for this job.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.