We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Product Manager to lead the development and strategic positioning of our photonic quantum computing products. This role encompasses special-purpose quantum computers and universal quantum computers, as well as QuiX´s renowned photonic components. The ideal candidate will bridge technical expertise, market insights, and strategic planning to drive the success of our quantum computing offerings. The role will report into the CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Product Strategy, Development & Product life cycle:

• Define the product roadmap for photonic quantum computing systems and quantum photonic components.
• Acting as product owner to Engineering and Operations for product developments: own product specification, and definition and market targeting within the company, working with Sales and R&D to gain a cross-company agreement.
• Align product vision with company objectives and emerging market trends.
• Oversee product lifecycle management, from concept to launch and iterative improvements.

1. Market Analysis & Customer Engagement:

• Conduct in-depth research on market needs, competitive landscape, and industry trends in quantum computing.
• Translate customer and market needs into detailed product requirements and specifications.
• Identify and evaluate target customer segments and potential applications for photonic quantum technologies.
• Act as a technical liaison during customer interactions, including presentations, training, and support.

1. Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Work closely with engineering, research, and development teams to ensure product feasibility and innovation.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and business development teams to define go-to-market strategies, providing support to the sales team including marketing documentation and second line sales support.
• Be responsible for the product marketing through major channels like web, social, trade shows, PR.

1. Regulatory and Standards Compliance:

• Ensure product compliance with industry standards, data security protocols, and applicable regulations.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in physics, computer science, engineering, or a related field;
  PhD is a plus. Strong background in quantum computing or photonic technologies is necessary as well as the ability to familiarize yourself with differences and use cases for special-purpose and universal quantum computers.
• 3+ years experience as a Product Manager or similar role, preferably in quantum computing, photonics, or advanced technology sectors.
• Record of developing, marketing and growing a product group.
• 2+ years in a small company, ideally in commercial functions as well as
  2+ years in a larger corporate.
• Experience working with R&D teams and managing complex technical products.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent project management and customer representation skills;
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to build trusted relationships with clients, partners, and internal teams.

• Exceptional communication and presentation abilities, with a capacity to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to build trusted relationships with clients, partners, and internal teams.
• Excellent project management and customer representation skills;
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and multiple stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience with photonic quantum computing platforms or software.
• Familiarity with programming languages or tools relevant to quantum computing (e.g., Python, Qiskit, Cirq).
• Previous experience in developing partnerships with academia, startups, or industry leaders in quantum technologies.

Location:

• The role can either be located in Amsterdam (NL)/Enschede (NL) (preferably) or Stuttgart (DE). A high willingness to travel is a matter of course.