Head of Business Development & Partnerships – Italy

About Simpler:

At Simpler, we’re building the infrastructure layer of commerce - the system that powers how payments, shipping, and identity connect at the point of purchase. Our goal is simple: make buying anywhere - online, in-store, or through any channel - fast, effortless, and unified.
Simpler gives merchants a complete checkout infrastructure that replaces fragmented integrations with a single, end-to-end system. Through our Shopping Passport, shoppers enjoy a one-click, remembered experience that works across brands, channels, and devices - securely and seamlessly.
Backed by leading investors, we’re scaling rapidly and redefining how the world transacts. Simpler isn’t just a product - it’s the foundation for a new era of connected commerce.

Role Overview:
As Head of Business Development & Partnerships for Italy, you’ll lead Simpler’s expansion in this key market. Your primary mission will be to drive market growth through strategic partnerships, develop key relationships with merchants, and work cross-functionally to ensure that our product adapts to the unique needs of the Italian market. You’ll help forge partnerships with industry players that could include tech platforms, logistics companies, payment providers, or other strategic collaborators that can accelerate our growth.
The ideal candidate is entrepreneurial, has a deep understanding of the Italian market, and is experienced in building relationships that drive both immediate revenue and long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive Market Growth: Lead efforts to acquire new merchants in Italy, ensuring they fully leverage Simpler’s platform to streamline checkout and boost conversions.
• Strategic Partnerships: Build and nurture relationships with a range of partners - tech platforms, payment providers, logistics companies, and other industry players - who can help us scale in Italy.
• Market Adaptation: Collaborate closely with the product team to ensure Simpler’s platform is tailored to meet the specific needs of the Italian market.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Work with sales, marketing, and product teams to execute strategies that increase Simpler’s brand presence and product adoption.
• Industry Networking: Leverage your network to open doors, accelerate growth, and position Simpler as the go-to checkout solution in Italy.

What Will You Do?

• Identify, pursue, and build key partnerships that will help Simpler grow and scale in Italy, beyond just product needs.
• Establish relationships with merchants, tech providers, and business partners, creating a seamless ecosystem for Simpler’s adoption.
• Collaborate across teams to drive localisation efforts and make sure the product adapts to Italy’s unique market requirements.
• Develop a deep understanding of the competitive landscape and consumer behaviour to inform market strategy.

Preferred Skills:

• Proven experience in business development, partnerships, or market expansion, ideally in e-commerce, fintech, or related industries.
• Strong network of industry contacts across Italy - whether in logistics, tech, finance, or related sectors.
• Ability to identify strategic opportunities for partnerships that go beyond immediate product needs and impact broader growth.
• Fluent in Italian and English, with excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Benefits:

• Join a high-growth startup and have a significant influence on Simpler’s success in Italy.
• Competitive salary, equity options, and performance-based bonuses.
• Remote working flexibility with opportunities for travel.
• Top-tier tech equipment and resources to support your success.