Business Development Manager

We are an innovative, Vancouver-based startup at the forefront of robotics, AI, and machine vision technologies. Backed by VC funding and we've been recognized with the 2025 Frost & Sullivan Technology Innovation Leadership Award, the AAM Supplier Excellence Innovation Award, and the 2024 BC Tech "Company of the Year – Growth", we are on a mission to redefine the future of AI-driven robotic vision systems.  Apera AI helps manufacturers make their factories more flexible and productive. Robots enhanced with Apera's software have 4D Vision – the ability to see and handle objects with human-like capability. Challenging applications such as bin picking, sorting, packaging, and assembly are now open to fast, precise, and reliable automation. Apera is led by an experienced team from high-growth companies focused on robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.

Let's End Robot Blindness 

Robots can do amazing things - if they can see. That's where you come in. 
We're Apera AI. Our breakthrough vision systems turn blind robots into intelligent, adaptable workers. But that transformation doesn't happen without people - especially the ones who open new doors and help global manufacturers see what's possible. 

We're hiring a Business Development Manager - Europe to lead our commercial expansion across the continent. This is a high-impact role where strategic sales meets advanced technology. You'll partner with OEMs, integrators, and end-users to show how Apera's 4D Vision platform transforms factory performance - from bin picking and assembly to sorting and packaging. 

What You'll Actually Do 

• Identify, qualify, and close high-value opportunities in manufacturing automation across Europe. 
• Build and manage a pipeline of strategic accounts using AI-powered lead intelligence and CRM automation. 
• Lead solution-oriented conversations with engineering and operations teams to uncover customer needs. 
• Develop proposals, ROI models, and market entry strategies that drive measurable business value. 
• Collaborate with Product and Solutions Engineering to ensure every deployment delivers on its promise. 
• Grow key accounts through renewals, expansions, and long-term partnerships. 

Why This Is a Career Move (Not Just a Job) 

At Apera, we're not just selling software - we're helping the world's largest manufacturers see differently. 

Here's what makes this role special: 

• You'll lead European expansion. You'll own the strategy and execution of Apera's growth across Europe - from Germany to the UK, France, and beyond. 
• You'll sell innovation that matters. Apera's 4D Vision technology has been recognized by Frost & Sullivan, AAM, and BC Tech for transforming automation on a global scale. 
• You'll grow with us. Work alongside visionary engineers and leaders, gain equity from day one, and help define how AI vision goes to market worldwide. 
• You'll see the real impact. Every customer win means faster production, safer factories, and smarter robots on real factory floors. 

What We're Looking For 

• 5+ years of B2B business development or technical sales experience in industrial automation, robotics, or AI-driven software. 
• Proven track record managing long-cycle, solution-based sales with OEMs or Tier 1 manufacturers. 
• Experience collaborating with technical teams on proposals, system demos, or proof-of-concept projects. 
• Strategic mindset with the ability to define and execute market entry strategies. 
• Fluent in English (German, French, or other languages a plus). 
• Willingness to travel across Europe as needed. 

Bonus points if you have: 

• Experience selling to or partnering with major industrial integrators. 
• Familiarity with machine vision, robotics, or automation software ecosystems. 

Why Apera? 

• Every employee is an owner - equity for all. 
• A culture of curiosity: we experiment, learn fast, and share openly. 
• Well-funded with a recent Series A to fuel ambitious product roadmaps and global expansion. 
• Trusted by big-name automotive in TIER 1 suppliers. 
• Compensation: At Apera AI, we believe that transparency and fairness are key to building a thriving team. For this BDM role, we offer a competitive base salary range of 90,000 to 100,000 EUR and OTE of 150,000 to 170,000 EUR per year. 

If you're ready to bring Apera's 4D Vision to Europe - and show the world what robots can truly see - let's talk. 

Apply now and help us end robot blindness. 

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