Chief Executive Officer

Position: CEO

Location: Lausanne, Switzerland- On site

Start date: Immediate

A confidential, Switzerland-based IVD startup is seeking a highly experienced, hands-on CEO to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth. This is a pivotal leadership role for a seasoned operator who thrives in early-stage and scaling environments, and is comfortable wearing multiple hats while driving execution at pace.

About the role

We are looking for a CEO with a proven track record of building and scaling startups from early stage through to exit. The ideal candidate brings strong operational depth, investor credibility, and the ability to lead across strategy, execution, and organisational development.

This role requires a high level of on-site presence in Lausanne, working closely with the team and key stakeholders to drive momentum and alignment.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute company strategy in close collaboration with the Board and stakeholders
• Lead the organisation through scaling, structuring, and operational maturity phases
• Build and develop a high-performing leadership team
• Drive fundraising strategy and execution across venture and strategic investors
• Represent the organisation externally with investors, partners, and industry stakeholders
• Oversee operational delivery across functions, ensuring focus and execution
• Position the company for long-term growth and potential exit opportunities

Required experience

• Proven experience as a CEO (or equivalent founder/C-level leader) in startup IVD/ Medical device environments
• Track record of building companies from early stage through to exit
• Strong experience operating in medical devices and/or IVD environments
• Established network within clinical and pharma ecosystems
• Demonstrated fundraising experience (Seed through Series B+ preferred)
• Experience leading teams in regulated, high-growth environments
• Comfortable operating in ambiguous, fast-moving startup settings

Personal attributes

• Entrepreneurial, resilient, and highly execution-oriented
• Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands-on delivery
• Strong relationship builder across technical, clinical, and investor communities
• Decisive leader with high accountability standards
• Willing to be deeply embedded on-site in Lausanne several days per week

What’s on offer

• Opportunity to take full leadership of a high-growth startup at a critical stage
• Significant strategic impact from day one
• Close collaboration with experienced stakeholders and investors
• Immediate start available for the right candidate

If you are a startup CEO who has built, scaled, and exited IVD/ Medical Device companies—and are ready for your next challenge—this could be an exceptional opportunity.