Head of Partnerships

WHO WE ARE At Proxima Fusion, we're driven by a bold mission – to redefine the future of sustainable energy. Our unique concept, built upon the groundbreaking W7-X stellarator and the latest advances in technology, paves the way for commercially viable fusion power plants. What’s more, our work in stellarator optimization, powered by cutting-edge computation and machine learning, is propelling us into uncharted territories of fusion technology. New higher performance design points are unlocked by high temperature superconducting magnets. To fully grasp this huge opportunity, we’re building a team of extremely dedicated and passionate people who come together driving something extraordinary, radically transforming technology in the world. WHY JOIN PROXIMA FUSION - You will get to work on some of the most complex tech challenges to bring abundant, safe, clean energy to the world. - You'll get to join and learn from an exceptional selection of accomplished and driven individuals. - Do your life’s best work and enjoy the journey. - Get to show that big things are possible in Europe when you assemble the best talent. YOUR IMPACT As Head of Partnerships, you will lead Proxima Fusion’s strategy to build and sustain high-impact collaborations that accelerate the realization of fusion energy. You will define and execute partnership frameworks that align directly with our technical roadmap — ensuring that every collaboration and funding initiative advances our core scientific and engineering milestones. Your role will blend strategic leadership with technical understanding, particularly in the context of fusion or adjacent energy technologies. You will play a central part in conceptualizing, planning, and drafting public funding applications, helping to secure the resources that enable world-leading fusion research and development in collaboration with the public research ecosystem. WHAT YOU WILL DO - Lead Proxima Fusion’s partnerships strategy, ensuring that collaborations are technically sound, strategically relevant, and impactful. - Coordinate and technically contribute to the preparation and submission of major public funding proposals, ensuring coherence with Proxima’s fusion roadmap and long-term goals. - Engage closely with technical, scientific, and strategic teams to define partnership directions that advance our R&D objectives. - Shape and re-orient collaborations with public research institutions, industrial partners, and international consortia, ensuring strategic alignment and scientific depth. - Represent Proxima Fusion in interactions with funding bodies, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, reinforcing the company’s leadership in fusion energy. - Guide and mentor a growing partnerships and public funding team, fostering a culture of precision, collaboration, and mission-driven excellence. WHO YOU ARE - Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in fusion science and engineering, or a closely related field. - 7+ years of experience in fusion, energy research, or advanced technology development, ideally with exposure to funding programs, government relations, or strategic partnerships. - Proven ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder collaborations that integrate technical insight with strategic execution. - Strong understanding of European and international research and innovation ecosystems, including public funding mechanisms. - Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to translate complex technical objectives into compelling strategic narratives. - Mission-driven, analytical, and forward-thinking, with a deep commitment to advancing fusion energy and contributing to a sustainable future. INTERVIEW PROCESS - Recruiter Interview (30-60 min) - Technical Screening (30 min) - Technical Panel (3x60 min) - CEO call (30 min) At Proxima Fusion, our mission is bold: making limitless clean energy a reality. To get there, we need a high-performing, diverse team that brings different perspectives, challenges assumptions, and builds together with purpose. We know that diversity of thought and experience leads to better ideas, stronger execution, and a more resilient team. We don’t look at how you identify, what you look like, who you choose to worship or what ethnicity you are. We care about what you can bring to the table.