Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR)

About the Role

KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) is seeking an Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR) for a contract position in Thuwal, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The EiR will lead the development of 2–3 early-stage deep-tech ventures (Technology Readiness Level 3–5), collaborating with academic founders to translate scientific innovations into commercially viable, investment-ready spinout companies. This role requires 5-10 years of experience.

Venture Development Focus

The EiR will apply a hands-on, entrepreneurial approach to venture building, driving strategy, validating market opportunities, developing customer-centric products, and establishing commercial partnerships. The role involves acting in a fractional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) capacity for each assigned venture, providing operational and commercial leadership throughout the development process. The primary objective is to prepare ventures for spinout by demonstrating market demand, developing a customer-centric product, securing pilot partnerships, and establishing credible pathways to VC funding.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate early technologies into commercial value propositions and market-ready Minimum Viable Products (MVPs).
• Conduct structured customer interviews to validate problem-solution fit and define target user profiles.
• Establish product differentiation through market size and competitive landscape analysis.
• Build unit economics, pricing models, and go-to-market strategies.
• Explore enterprise partners, negotiate trial agreements (LOIs, MOUs), and oversee field pilots.
• Evaluate founding team capabilities to address key skill gaps before launch.
• Create pitch decks, financial models, and data rooms, while leading investor meetings and managing the VC pipeline.
• Connect ventures with follow-on funding (*, programs, grants) to support long-term growth post-program.

Required Experience and Competencies

• Startup Leadership: Proven track record as a founder or startup leader who has successfully built and scaled technology startups, ideally in Saudi Arabia.
• Technical Literacy: Strong commercial background and technical literacy in deep-tech development.
• Product Development: Demonstrated ability to define, execute, and iterate on MVP roadmaps based on market requirements.
• Market & Pilot Discovery: First-hand experience driving customer discovery, identifying beachhead markets, and managing field pilots.
• Deal-Closing: Deep experience in sales, contract negotiations, and building strategic partnerships.
• Fundraising Record: Demonstrated success securing early-stage capital from venture capital funds, angel networks, or corporate venture arms.
• Roll-Up-Your-Sleeves Mindset: High tolerance for ambiguity and a drive to execute tasks directly, from drafting commercial emails to managing field trial logistics.
• Business Development: Strong ability to initiate commercial outreach and negotiate pilot terms.
• Academic-to-Industry Translator (Preferred): Ability to establish credibility with scientists and bridge lab innovation with market speed, customer priorities, and commercial trade-offs.

Career Progression Opportunity

Subject to successful completion of the engagement, performance, and mutual agreement with the relevant founding team, the EiR may have the opportunity to join a venture as a co-founder and equity shareholder. This transition is contingent on the needs and progress of the venture and agreement between all parties involved.