Innovation Programs & Partnerships Associate

Innovation Programs & Partnerships Associate

We are looking for a Innovation Programs & Partnerships Associate to work closely with the Head of Innovation & Partnerships in driving and executing key innovation initiatives, strategic partnerships, procurement and public‑funded programs.

This role acts as a right hand to the Head of Innovation & Partnerships, helping structure and execute strategic innovation activities across European and national programs, ecosystem partnerships, and industrial innovation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Innovation Programs & Public Funding

• Support the preparation and coordination of European and national innovation programs
• Contribute to the drafting of proposals and responses to calls (EU, national programs, strategic funding initiatives)
• Coordinate internal teams and external partners involved in funded innovation projects
• Monitor project progress and ensure compliance with program requirements and reporting

Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Development

• Help develop partnerships with industrial players, startups, research labs, and technology providers
• Support the development of collaborations around new technologies and innovation equipment
• Represent C12 at industry conferences and events (non‑speaking role), focusing on networking, external engagement and evangelization

Industrial Innovation, Equipment & Supply Chain

• Support innovation initiatives related to new manufacturing technologies, equipment, and supply chain optimization
• Support the Head of Innovation and Partnerships by optimizing supply chain management: participate in procurement, sourcing and evaluation of innovative industrial equipment, suppliers, and solutions
• Support (public and private) management of partnerships to enable experimentation and deployment

About You

Background & Experience

• Between 5 to 8 years of experience in innovation programs, strategic partnerships, or technology‑driven organizations
• Experience working in or collaborating with deep‑tech ecosystems and startups
• Master's degree in physics, quantum physics, or engineering
• Exposure to industrial innovation, technology ecosystems, or research collaborations
• Really nice to have:
• Exposure to cutting‑edge technologies (e.g., quantum computing)
• Experience coordinating and launching European or national public funding programs, exposure to public affairs

Skills

• Strong writing and analytical skills (drafting of proposals, notes, briefings, strategic documents)
• Ability to coordinate complex multi‑stakeholder initiatives and programs
• Outstanding communication, presentation skills and stakeholder management
• Comfort navigating technical environments and emerging technologies

Mindset

• Structured and execution‑oriented
• Feedback oriented
• Curious about technology and innovation ecosystems
• Comfortable interacting with senior stakeholders and public institutions
• Demonstrates enthusiasm and positive energy, contributing to a driven and collaborative team environment
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to handle evolving priorities and a wide variety of topics

What We Offer

• Stock options for every employee (BSPCE/ESOP)
• Two incredible office spaces in the heart of Paris (both next to the famous Panthéon!)
• Sponsored trip to conferences around the world
• Swile meal vouchers
• Vibrant office culture (team lunches, offsite events, Friday breakfasts…)
• Mental health support with moka.care
• Training budget/Annual Learning & Development Allowance
• Sabbatical leave (after 2 years in the company)

Applications from women are encouraged and welcomed.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.