
Partner - Defense & Security
WhatAVenture is a European corporate venture builder with a strong client footprint primarily in Austria, Germany and Italy. They are a trusted partner for leading corporates such as Julius Blum, Raffeisen Bank, KTM, Deutsche Post, Daimler, Miele and many more, helping them build startups and investment teams. The Venture Architect team acts as visionary venture architects, hands-on entrepreneurs and investors, and have a strong impact on the success of each venture. So far WhatAVenture has helped build more than 40 ventures across Europe. WhatAVenture has offices in Vienna and Bolzano.
The job
As a Partner at whataventure, you will lead high-impact innovation and venture-building projects at the intersection of strategy, technology, and execution — with a strong focus on the defense and security sectors. You bring deep expertise in navigating complex, regulated environments and have a clear understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the defense tech space.
You’ll build up our defense-related activities, leveraging our deep new business expertise and network. You will work closely with clients, founders, and internal teams to identify new business opportunities, shape bold strategies, and build ventures that matter — from early concept to market-ready solutions.
Requirements
What You Bring
• 10+ years of experience in strategy, innovation, venture building, or transformation —with a focus on defense, aerospace, security, or related industries
• Strong understanding of the defense and security landscape, including procurement cycles, stakeholder dynamics, and regulatory frameworks
• Up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies (e.g. AI, edge computing, autonomy, cyber, etc.) and the ability to translate them into new business or dual-use opportunities
• A proven track record of leading complex, cross-functional initiatives in high stakes, sensitive environments
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across public, private, and institutional partners
• A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach to execution
Nice to Have
• Background in or close collaboration with military, government, or defense startups
• Experience in dual-use tech development or commercialization
• A strong network within the defense innovation or security technology ecosystem
Benefits
An opportunity to become an equity Partner with Whataventure, a team of hands-on entrepreneurs, innovators, growth experts, and passionate venture architects who build the business of tomorrow.




Are you the candidate we seek? Please reach out to:
Bjørn Andersen
CEO & Founder