KU Lighthouse is looking for a senior profile to develop and run formats that strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship for startups at the University of Copenhagen. The position is part of the Community Management team, and we are seeking a candidate with strong competencies in business development and program management. About KU Lighthouse

KU Lighthouse is part of UCPH Innovation and External Partnerships. We work to strengthen innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of Copenhagen and serve as a hub for students, researchers, and external partners who want to collaborate across disciplines.

We offer a dynamic and inspiring community, as well as programs that support the development of startups and spinouts. Our ambition is to create the best possible conditions for sustainable and successful companies rooted in the university’s research and talent.

About the Role

You will be responsible for developing, facilitating, and running programs that support startup development and innovation. You will join a team of dedicated colleagues and work closely with students, researchers, and external partners. We are looking for someone with the ability to scale programs and processes while safeguarding well-being and ensuring that growth strengthens rather than disrupts existing operations.

Key responsibilities

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing and facilitating programs for startups and spinouts – from idea stage to investor readiness – and playing a key role in both the design and delivery of these programs.
• Coaching early-stage startups and supporting diverse growth paths, whether focused on investor readiness, sustainable development, or impact-driven goals
• Applying state-of-the-art business development tools in collaborative formats and facilitating their use.
• Ensuring structure and progress in programs, including planning, follow-up, and evaluation.
• Building and maintaining relationships with startups, mentors, and partners as part of the Community Management team.
• Contributing to an inspiring and inclusive innovation environment through an active and approachable presence in the community.

Qualifications

We imagine you have:

• Approximately, 10 years of experience in program management – preferably in innovation or startup environments.
• Experience designing and facilitating programs and workshops, including guiding startups in applying and tailoring business model tools to their specific contexts and goals.
• Experience as a startup coach guiding startups from idea to investor readiness.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to create structure in complex processes.
• Preferably, a relevant higher education degree within innovation, business development, or a related field.

It is considered an advantage if you have personal startup experience, have worked with spinouts or student startups, and/or have prior experience within higher education.

We offer

• A meaningful position with the opportunity to create real impact – both locally and globally.
• Access to a strong network of leading research environments and innovative companies.
• Insight into cutting-edge research and the opportunity to shape future innovation initiatives.
• A flexible and varied workday with significant responsibility and the freedom to influence direction.
• An engaged team with an informal tone and a high level of professionalism.

We believe that modern organizations can thrive with less traditional hierarchy. That is why we work with a flatter structure and are moving toward more distributed leadership. KU Lighthouse has a shared leadership trio supporting team development and autonomy.

Salary and Employment Terms

Preferred starting date is April 1, 2026. Salary and employment are in accordance with the current agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC, with placement as special consultant or chief advisor, depending on qualifications. The position is full-time (37 hours/week) with flexible working hours. We strive to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Application deadline: January 29, 2026

Interviews will be held in week 6.

Applications may be submitted in Danish or English.

Contact

For further information, please contact: Marius Sylvestersen, Chief Innovation Officer, at +45 2193 6520 or marius@adm.ku.dk or Katrine Damgaard, Chief Advisor, at +45 2615 3506 or kda@adm.ku.dk

Read more about KU Lighthouse at www.lighthouse.ku.dk