Founders Associate (Sales-Focused)

About the Role This is a rare opportunity to join a fast-growing AI-powered content and brand visibility platform as one of the first commercial hires — working directly alongside the CEO across sales, operations, and company building. The company operates in the emerging space of Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO) , helping brands appear in AI-generated responses on platforms such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews. The business already serves 40+ clients across 14+ industries and is backed by leading startup programmes including Google Cloud for Startups and Microsoft Founders Hub. This role is ideal for someone early in their career who is hungry to learn, comfortable operating with ambiguity, and excited by the intersection of AI technology and go-to-market execution. What You'll Do Partner directly with the CEO on day-to-day sales activity — from prospecting and outreach to closing deals and managing relationships Own and grow pipeline, contributing directly to revenue targets and business development initiatives Support the design and execution of scalable sales processes and commercial operations Assist with company-building activities including hiring, partnerships, and strategic projects as the team scales Work cross-functionally across sales, marketing, product, and operations — acting as a force multiplier for the founding team Represent the company externally with prospects, partners, and clients What We're Looking For Required: 1–2 years of full-time work experience (post-graduation) Proven customer-facing sales or business development experience with a demonstrable track record in pipeline growth or revenue contribution Background in a consultancy (e.g. strategy, management consulting) or a high-growth startup strongly preferred Ability and willingness to work closely with a founder/CEO and take ownership across a broad remit Strong cross-functional collaboration skills — comfortable context-switching between commercial and operational work Fluent in German and English (professional level) Nice to have: Exposure to AI, SaaS, or content/marketing technology Experience at firms such as Capgemini Invent, BCG, EY-Parthenon, PwC, or similar strategy/consulting backgrounds Familiarity with go-to-market motions in early-stage B2B environments Dealbreaker: Candidates must be willing and able to work on-site in Munich or Hamburg (relocation supported where applicable). This role is not available remotely. Compensation & Benefits Total compensation: up to €130,000 (inclusive of sales-related variable component) Equity: 0.5–1% (significant early-stage upside) Direct mentorship and day-to-day collaboration with the CEO High-autonomy, high-impact role at a company with strong early commercial traction Please note: visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Location Based in Munich or Hamburg, Germany . On-site presence is required. The team is split across both cities, and both are active hiring locations.