Business Development Manager

SOLAR MATERIALS is a cleantech startup based in Magdeburg, Germany, specializing in the recycling of solar modules. We have developed an innovative recycling technology that, for the first time, makes it possible to economically recover all raw materials contained in solar modules. Our thermo-mechanical process is energy-efficient and does not require the use of chemicals.

Our goal is to transition the solar industry towards a circular economy and make solar energy truly sustainable.

To further expand our activities in Italy, we are looking for a motivated and entrepreneurial Business Development Manager (m/f/d).

In this role, you will support us in identifying suitable site and cooperation partners, building strategic partnerships, and systematically expanding our network within the Italian recycling and cleantech market.

Your main responsibilities as Business Development Manager (m/f/d) will include:

• Identifying and approaching suitable site and cooperation partners in Italy
• Building and maintaining a relevant partner network, particularly with:
  • Established companies in the waste management and recycling industry
  • Technology startups in the recycling sector
  • Companies in the solar industry
• Preparing and conducting partner meetings, presentations, and workshops
• Evaluating potential partners in terms of their strategic, operational, and economic suitability
• Supporting the preparation of market analyses, business cases, and decision-making materials
• Supporting the entire partnership process – from initial outreach and letters of intent to cooperation agreements and the establishment of new sites
• Attending trade fairs, industry events, and partner meetings in Italy 

• University degree, for example in Business Administration, Economics, Industrial Engineering, Environmental Management, or a comparable qualification
• Native-level Italian or several years of study, work, or living experience in Italy
• Strong understanding of Italian business culture and regional market structures
• Initial practical experience in Business Development, ideally related to the Italian market
• Initial experience in partnership or project management, sales, or consulting
• Ideally, knowledge of or existing contacts within the waste management and recycling industry, the cleantech sector, or the solar industry
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for building new business relationships
• Independent, structured, and reliable way of working
• Entrepreneurial mindset, initiative, and willingness to take ownership

Help build our presence in Italy: You will play a direct role in establishing and further developing our activities in the Italian market.

Responsibility from day one: You will take ownership of your own topics early on and work closely with our management team and relevant departments.

Entrepreneurial freedom: Instead of rigid structures, you can expect short decision-making processes and the opportunity to contribute and implement your own ideas.

International and hands-on environment: You will work at the intersection of the German and Italian markets and regularly engage directly with companies and partners on the ground.

Work in a market with a future: You will actively contribute to developing sustainable recycling solutions and building a functioning circular economy.

Flexible working: Flexible working hours and remote work options allow you to organize your working day independently.