Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer (Gn) @ Biotech

**About Aardaia**
Aardaia is on a mission to diversify global food systems by transforming wild plant species into sustainable food sources. Founded in 2023 and based in Wageningen, we are pioneering the future of agriculture with our flagship product, the aardaker—a nitrogen-fixing, protein-rich tuber that combines the yield potential of a potato with the nutritional benefits of a legume. With pre-seed funding from FoodLabs, Aardaia is revolutionizing agriculture by unlocking the economic and societal potential of underutilized species, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. As we continue to innovate, our focus remains on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable farming by exploring additional resilient crops that can transform global food systems.

**What Success Looks Like in the First 6 Months**:

- You have set up and optimized core operational processes, ensuring efficient execution of daily activities.
- You have developed and implemented financial strategies that extend the company’s runway by at least 12 months, ensuring financial stability ahead of our next funding round.
- You have ensured compliance with all relevant regulations, particularly for the development and commercialization of new crops like the aardaker, avoiding any regulatory setbacks.
- You have built and maintained strong relationships with vendors, partners, and other key stakeholders, facilitating smooth and effective operations.
- You have played a pivotal role in building a high-performing team and fostering a strong company culture aligned with Aardaia’s mission and values.

**What You Need to Succeed**
- Proven experience in operational management, financial oversight, or regulatory compliance, preferably in the agriculture, food-tech, or biotech sectors.
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of successful execution in dynamic and complex environments.
- Experience in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and investor communications with the ability to extend financial runways.
- Expertise in navigating regulatory landscapes, especially in the agriculture and food industries.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with a passion for innovation, sustainability, and team building.
- Adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges, with an entrepreneurial mindset and readiness to build and scale a high-impact venture from the ground up.

**What We Offer**
- A unique opportunity to co-found and shape a pioneering venture with global impact potential.
- A dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment dedicated to sustainable agriculture and food innovation.
- The chance to work with a highly motivated team committed to redefining the future of food systems.
- Competitive compensation package, including a meaningful equity stake in the company with significant growth potential.
- Opportunities for professional development and learning about cutting-edge agricultural technologies, with access to industry events and networks.

**What We Value**
- ** Passion for innovation** - We are here to make a difference and constantly push the boundaries to improve our products and processes.
- ** Creativity and Out-of-the-Box Thinking** - We value novel approaches that drive breakthroughs in sustainable agriculture.
- ** Operational excellence** - We strive for the highest standards in everything we do, aiming for efficiency and quality in our operations.
- ** Long-term thinking** - We believe in building a sustainable future; every decision we make is aligned with our long-term vision.
- ** Always learning** - We are curious, humble, and constantly seek new knowledge to drive our mission forward.
- ** Customer obsession** - We care deeply about our stakeholders, from farmers to consumers, and prioritize their needs in every aspect of our work.