Microcaps is an ETH Zurich spin-off founded in March 2019. Our unique technology allows us to produce highly precise and innovative microcapsules that empower materials to unlock new capabilities; all tailored to various markets from cosmetics to nutraceutical and pharma.

Our first commercial focus is a genuine breakthrough for the perfume industry: alcohol‑free fine fragrances. We already have our first products on the market with reputable brand partners and are now preparing global launches to establish Microcaps as the reference for next‑generation fragrance bases.

With our dedicated perfume factory being finalized in 2025, our mission for 2026 is clear: make alcohol‑free fine fragrance available worldwide.

To strengthen our team in Zurich-Schlieren we are looking for a:

Key Account Manager, 100%

As Key Account Manager, you are at the core of our sales, marketing and commercial strategy. You own key accounts, design and execute go‑to‑market campaigns, build our sales pipeline, and guide customers from first proof‑of‑concept to successful launch on the shelf. You work closely with the founders and technical team and have a direct impact on how fast alcohol‑free fine fragrance scales globally.

Tasks

Key Account Management

• Own strategic brand and B2B accounts from first meeting to launch and post‑launch growth.
• Coordinate sampling, evaluations and project timelines together with applications, R&D and operations.

Sales Execution

• Drive new business via outreach (email, LinkedIn, conferences, trade fairs) and inbound lead qualification.
• Build and manage a high‑quality opportunity pipeline; negotiate commercial terms and close deals.
• Identify upsell and cross‑sell opportunities with existing customers and distribution partners.

Sales & Go‑to‑Market Strategy

• Co‑develop and iterate our commercial strategy with the leadership team (pricing, segments, territories).
• Test and refine different approaches to reach new customers (direct sales, agents/distributors, licensing).
• Provide structured market and competitor feedback into product roadmap and positioning.

Marketing & Brand Building

• Plan and execute campaigns across channels (website, newsletters, social media, PR, events).
• Position Microcaps as the innovation leader for alcohol‑free fragrance and microencapsulation with key industry stakeholders.
• Ensure consistent messaging and sales materials (presentations, case studies, brochures).

Requirements

This role is a good fit if you fulfil these requirements:

• Have 5+ years of experiencein the perfume, cosmetics or beauty ingredients industry (brand, supplier or distributor) and understand the key players and decision‑making processes.
• Are a fast learnerwith strong analytical skills and the ability to connect technical details with commercial value.
• Are a hands‑on builderwho is comfortable both setting strategy and doing the work (outreach, meetings, copy, slides).
• Bring excellent communication skillsand high social competence; you can build trust with founders, brand managers, perfumers and technical teams.
• Are fluent in English(written and spoken); French and/or German are strong plus.
• Have work permit in Switzerland.
• Are motivated by working in an early‑stage, high‑growth environment where you help shape processes rather than inherit them.

Nice to have:

• Existing network with fragrance / beauty brands, perfume houses, or distributors
• Experience launching new technologies or ingredients into established markets

Benefits

• 5 weeks of vacation
• Working with a highly skilled and passionate team
• The opportunity to participate in building a business that is entirely new. With novel products and unique technology

Application: Please apply using the form on our Webpage’s Career Site Microcaps(at)ch -- career