GATE Centre of Excellence “Big Data for Smart Society” is a research institute, established in 2019 in Sofia, Bulgaria as a joint initiative between Sofia University Bulgaria, Chalmers University of Technology (Chalmers) and Chalmers Industrial Technology (CIT), Sweden.

GATE mission is to:

• Establish a world-class ecosystem for basic and applied Big Data and Artificial Intelligence research and innovation
• Be a focal point between academia, government and industry for Big Data and Artificial intelligence domain
• Serve as a catalyst for economic growth based on data-science innovation, digitalization, and knowledge-based entrepreneurship across various economic sectors.

GATE creates value and delivers innovation excellence into following four strategic application themes:

• Future Cities
• Intelligent Government
• Smart Industry
• Digital Health

In connection with its intensive growth, GATE Institute is looking for a Deputy Director for Business Development who will coordinate the outcomes of GATE’s research and innovation projects and their applicability to business partners.

Deputy Director for Business Development

Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate the strategic and operational aspects of GATE Institute’s business development.
• Actively develop new opportunities and maintain long-term partnerships to achieve the Institute’s strategic and financial objectives.
• Expand and maintain an international network of corporate partners. Evaluate new business and project opportunities, assess risks, and analyze financial outcomes.
• Prepare project proposals and coordinate joint initiatives with partners. Manage communication and synchronization of activities.
• Support the business development team in designing professional training courses and programs for corporate partners.
• Assist the team in the preparation and implementation of research projects with industrial partners. Manage funding agreements and intellectual property rights.
• Develop partnerships with venture capital and private equity funds in the fields of innovation and start-up development.
• Organize and coordinate events to promote the Institute and attract new partners and sponsors.
• Conduct market research to identify new business opportunities and analyze market trends. Develop strategies to expand market share and assess the performance of ongoing marketing campaigns.
• Manage the Institute’s infrastructure and ensure its optimal utilization through the attraction of new clients and business opportunities.
• Negotiate and conclude contracts with external organizations, and oversee compliance with contractual terms.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in economics, administration and management, information technologies, or a related field.
• An additional master’s degree or specialization in business administration will be considered an advantage.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience.
• Proven experience in establishing and maintaining partnerships with clients, investors, or strategic allies.
• Track record of achieving business objectives such as increasing market share, expanding partner networks, and driving revenue growth.
• Experience in project management, particularly in multifunctional and international projects.
• Knowledge and experience in targeted development of new markets and product lines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent command of spoken and written English.
• Proficiency in using business software (CRM systems, ERP, Microsoft Office, analytical tools).
• Knowledge of digital marketing, data analytics, and technology (an advantage in the modern business context).
• Team player with flexibility, adaptability to change, efficiency, and strong organizational skills.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail, creativity, and effectiveness in analyzing and solving complex problems.
• High level of sensitivity and confidentiality in handling information.
• Proven planning and organizational skills with the ability to take initiative, achieve goals and KPIs, meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and perform effectively under pressure.
• Ability for self-assessment and active pursuit of learning opportunities; readiness to learn, improve personal effectiveness, and adapt to new challenges.
• Positive attitude and resilience in achieving objectives and overcoming challenges.
• Practical mindset with a high degree of integrity, honesty, and ethical standards.

Our offer:

• Leading management position with professional social and economic impact.
• You will have the opportunity to contribute to the GATE Research and Innovation Strategy through management of its research and innovation project portfolio.
• You will enjoy numerous opportunities for international collaboration, knowledge exchange and further professional development on top levels.
• You will be supported by an advanced research infrastructure, comprising of the GATE platform and Open Innovation Labs.
• Working in the new GATE building – modern and appealing work environment, stirring up creativity and productivity.
• Attractive remuneration matching your responsibilities, and advanced professional skills and experience.

How to apply:

Please send your contact data and files with personal documents on our Application Form - Gate (gate-ai.eu) until October 23, 2025:

• Cover/motivation letter that explains the motivating factors for considering the position (max. 1 pp)
• CV
• Copies of diplomas for completed education and certificates of qualification
• Copies of documents certifying past work experience in the relevant field
• Two references letters or personal recommendations, arranged by applicants and directly submitted by the letter or provided as contact data in the cover letter
• As an attachment to your application please sign and enclose the following declaration:
  I consent to my personal data being collected, processed, and stored in connection with my current application for the position of Project Portfolio Manager.

Additional information on the site www.gate-ai.eu or contact us on: career@gate-ai.eu .

By applying for these positions, you voluntarily provide your personal data and consent to be processed for the purpose of recruitment and selection of personnel. The processing of your personal data shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation), the Personal Data Protection Law and related legal acts in Bulgaria.

Recruiting stages:

1. Evaluation of the documents submitted by the candidates and admission to the procedure of those meeting the requirements set out in the notice. The successful candidates will be informed by 23.10.2025.
2. An interview with the successful candidates will take place until 24.10.2025.
3. All interviewed candidates will be informed of the outcome of the competition.
4. The selected candidates will be appointed on a contract basis.