Sector Specialist

Sector Specialist / Investment Manager Advanced Sensing - Human Technology Interface (HTI) Join to apply for the Sector Specialist / Investment Manager Advanced Sensing - Human Technology Interface (HTI) role at Emerald Technology Ventures Emerald is a globally recognized venture capital firm building a sustainable future at the crossroads of industry and technology. Founded in 2000, it is a pioneer in open innovation, providing multi-national corporations with rich deal flow and insight in the sectors and markets of tomorrow. Emerald has managed and advised assets of over €1 billion from its offices in Zurich, Toronto and Singapore. The firm is dedicated to tackling big challenges in climate change and sustainability via over 500 venture transactions and five third‑party investment mandates, including loan guarantees to over 100 start‑ups. To expand our investment team with dedicated sector expertise, we are seeking an entrepreneurial investment professional to join our Zurich‑based team, with outstanding knowledge in the field of human–technology interface. The scope includes, but is not limited to, applications in automation, robotics, advanced sensing, and AR/VR—covering the full stack from sensor technologies to software platforms enabling human interaction with technology and machines. This role represents a unique opportunity to become part of a global investment team, expand our activities in this domain, and create tangible, sustainable impact in one of the fastest‑evolving deep‑tech sectors. What you will do Analyze and assess trends, products, and solutions across the human–technology interface landscape, including (but not limited to) automation, robotics, advanced sensing, human–machine interaction, AR/VR, and enabling software platforms. Leverage broad industry, technology, and cross‑functional networks to identify key industry challenges and growth opportunities, anticipate user and customer needs, and prepare well‑founded investment strategy recommendations for these segments. Map market sub‑sectors within human–technology interaction to identify the most compelling early‑ and growth‑stage startup opportunities. Source and analyze companies from a technology, intellectual property, product, business‑model, and operational perspective, and prepare investment recommendations as part of a deal team. Coordinate and execute due diligence as part of a deal team, covering technology, market dynamics, business strategy, competitive positioning, regulatory considerations (where relevant), and management capabilities. Support portfolio companies post‑investment, closely monitoring progress against key performance indicators and actively contributing to value creation initiatives toward successful exits. Play a key role in building and expanding Emerald’s expert network across human–technology interface domains, including researchers, industry leaders, corporates, and ecosystem partners. Travel as required to conduct due diligence, attend industry and technology conferences, engage with portfolio companies, and liaise with strategic investors. Engage and maintain strong relationships with Emerald’s strategic investors, with a particular focus on human–technology interface themes, supporting their open innovation and investment activities through frequent and substantive interaction. What you will need Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Electronics, Cognitive Science, Physics, or a related technical discipline. A strong interdisciplinary background is highly valued. MBA or equivalent postgraduate business qualification is a plus, but not a requirement. Several years of professional experience in relevant industrial, technology, or research‑driven sectors, with deep insight into the key challenges and dynamics of human–technology interaction domains such as automation, robotics, sensing or AR/VR. Hands‑on exposure to cutting‑edge technologies being developed, tested, and commercialised in these fields, with the ability to assess technical feasibility and scalability. Experience collaborating between start‑ups and large established organisations (e.g. industrials, technology corporates, research institutions) is strongly preferred. Prior experience in venture capital, corporate venture, or technology investing is a strong plus, but not mandatory. Highly curious and analytically rigorous, with the ability to evaluate opportunities across technical, commercial, and strategic dimensions efficiently and independently. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage credibly with founders, technical experts, corporate partners, and internal stakeholders across disciplines. Entrepreneurial, energetic self‑starter, comfortable working in a small, high‑performance team and thriving in an environment with evolving priorities and fast‑moving deliverables. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in additional languages is a plus. What we offer Employee first culture Public transportation coverage Monthly mobile phone allowance and budget for a new device Unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning Hybrid work environment Extra paid leave for volunteering, further education and special life events Two weeks annually for remote work from any location Annual budget to support your further education and professional development Seniority level Associate Employment type Full‑time Job function Information Technology and Finance Industries Financial Services and Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals Emerald is committed to being a diverse and inclusive company. We consider diversity and inclusion critical to our long‑term success. All qualified applicants will be considered equally without regard to their gender, age, culture, nationality, ethnicity, physical abilities, political and religious beliefs, sexual orientation and other attributes. #J-18808-Ljbffr