For Client Job Description: Chief Technology Officer (CTO) / Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Hybrid Position : Chief Technology Officer (CTO) / CEO Location : CHENNAI Reports To : Board of Directors / Promoters Type : Full-Time Company Overview : [Company Name] is an exciting new startup poised to revolutionize the food industry. With a focus on [specific niche: food technology, sustainable food production, innovative packaging, plant-based alternatives, etc.], we aim to provide fresh, high-quality, and accessible food solutions to meet the evolving demands of consumers. Although we are in the pre-launch phase, we are building a company that combines cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and operational excellence to disrupt the market. We are looking for a visionary Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to take the helm, leading the company through its early growth stages, from product development to scaling operations and market entry. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a startup from the ground up, directly collaborating with the companys promoters to set the strategic and operational direction of the business. Key Responsibilities Technology Leadership (CTO) Strategic Technology Vision : Develop and execute the companys technology strategy to ensure we can meet the food industrys current and future needs. Oversee the development of innovative solutions that optimize food production, distribution, and sustainability, with a focus on scalability. Leverage emerging technologies (AI, machine learning, automation, blockchain, etc.) to streamline processes and improve product offerings in areas like food safety, quality control, and consumer experience. Product Development : Lead the design and development of our core products, working with R&D teams to ensure the technology behind our food products and solutions aligns with market demand and sustainability goals. Create and manage the tech stack and platforms for production, e-commerce, and customer engagement. Tech Team Building : Build a small, agile, and talented technology team to support product development and operational execution. Hire and mentor technical talent with expertise in food technology, supply chain optimization, and sustainability. Innovation & Industry Leadership : Stay ahead of food technology trends, ensuring the company leverages the latest tools, processes, and systems. Explore partnerships with food tech innovators, suppliers, and academic institutions to advance the companys technological edge. Operational & Management Leadership (CEO) Company Strategy & Vision : Lead the company’s overall strategy, working closely with the Board of Directors and Promoters to set and execute clear business objectives and operational milestones. Oversee business development, brand positioning, and go-to-market strategy, ensuring the company’s launch and early growth are successful. Promoter Collaboration & Support : Collaborate with company promoters to receive mentorship, resources, and operational guidance during the company’s early stages. Report directly to the promoters, providing regular updates on the progress of product development, fundraising, and operational milestones. Financial Management & Resource Allocation : Create and manage budgets, forecasting, and financial plans for a lean, startup operation while preparing for scaling. Develop funding strategies (e.g., seed funding, venture capital, or grants) and manage investor relationships to ensure financial stability as the company grows. Operational Execution & Scaling : Build the operational structure for the business, including supply chain management, production, marketing, and distribution channels, ensuring a smooth market entry. Oversee the establishment of quality control processes and regulatory compliance (food safety standards, certifications) as the company prepares for its official launch. Hiring & Team Development : Build a high-performance startup team that can execute in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment. Foster a positive company culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and transparency. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships : Identify and secure key partnerships with suppliers, distributors, retailers, and industry leaders to help the business scale effectively. Work closely with early customers, ensuring we meet their needs while refining the product and overall business model. Desired Skills & Qualifications Start-Up & Industry-Specific Experience : Proven experience in launching and scaling businesses, ideally in the food industry or a related tech-driven sector (food tech, agtech, sustainable food production, etc.). Experience in early-stage companies or startups, with the ability to navigate the unique challenges of getting a business off the ground. Familiarity with the food industry’s regulatory landscape, including food safety, labeling, sustainability certifications, and consumer protection. Leadership & Vision : Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, set strategic direction, and execute plans in high-pressure, resource-limited environments. Strong entrepreneurial mindset with a willingness to take calculated risks and pivot when necessary. Technological Expertise : A deep understanding of relevant technologies (AI, automation, blockchain, IoT, etc.) that can be applied to food production, logistics, and consumer engagement. Previous experience in overseeing tech development in a food-related context or consumer goods is highly desirable. Financial & Operational Acumen : Strong background in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and securing funding. Knowledge of supply chain management, distribution, and scaling production in a food industry context. Communication & Collaboration : Excellent communication skills, able to work closely with internal teams, external stakeholders, investors, and promoters. Ability to represent the company and its mission to the outside world, including media, customers, and potential investors. Growth Mindset : Passionate about building a brand from the ground up and scaling it sustainably, with a focus on long-term success. Ability to think strategically, yet work hands-on, especially in the early stages of the business. Education & Experience Education : A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. An MBA or other relevant graduate degree is a plus. Experience : At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership role, ideally within the food industry or a tech-driven consumer products business. Proven experience in leading a startup or new business venture from concept to execution. Why Join Us? Exciting Opportunity : Be part of building a company from the ground up, shaping the future of the food industry with technology and innovation. Entrepreneurial Freedom : Take ownership of the company’s vision and operations while collaborating closely with experienced promoters and industry leaders. Growth Potential : Lead a startup in its early stages with the potential for significant career and personal growth as the company scales. If you are a driven, innovative leader with a passion for food and technology and want to make a lasting impact on an exciting new venture, we would love to hear from you.
