Entrepreneur in Residence (Buiness Head)

Entrepreneur in Residence - HappyTopia
Location: Bangalore, India
About HappyTopia:

HappyTopia is an innovative startup focused on creating a unique entertainment ecosystem for children through autonomous vending machines, strategically placed in high-footfall areas across India. Our machines offer an exciting array of surprise toys, providing a fun and engaging experience for kids. We are currently operating in seven cities and are poised for rapid expansion.

**Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Execution:

• Develop and implement strategic plans to scale HappyTopia’s vending machine operations nationwide.
• Identify optimal locations for machine placement, such as malls, airports, and other high-footfall areas.
• Lead market expansion efforts and oversee implementation across new cities.

*Sales & Business Development: *

• Scale the business from 400 machines in 7 cities to 5000 machines in top 25 cities
• Drive sales efforts to secure prime locations for vending machines and establish partnerships with mall operators, real estate firms, and other stakeholders.
• Develop relationships with key partners, ensuring favorable commercial terms.
• Identify new revenue streams through innovative offerings or additional products.

Operations & Logistics:

• Oversee procurement, distribution, and maintenance of vending machines.
• Manage third-party service providers for machine maintenance, refills, and battery replacements.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements across operational locations.

Marketing & Brand Building:

• Collaborate with the marketing team to build brand awareness through targeted campaigns and events.
• Develop innovative marketing strategies to engage children and parents, ensuring HappyTopia becomes the go-to entertainment brand for kids.
• Coordinate activations and partnerships to increase visibility and user engagement.

Financial & Performance Management:

• Set and manage financial targets, ensuring growth in revenue, profitability, and operational efficiency.
•Regularly analyze performance data to make informed decisions and improve business operations.
• Develop budgets, forecasts, and P&L management strategies aligned with company goals.
Team Leadership & Development:
• Lead a dynamic and young team, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaboration.
• Build and mentor a high-performing team, ensuring alignment with company values and long-term objectives.
• Support recruitment efforts to expand the team as HappyTopia scales.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience: 5+ years of experience in business management, operations, or retail, ideally with a focus on children’s products, entertainment, or consumer goods.
• Education: MBA or equivalent business qualification preferred.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and inspire a team, with a track record of scaling operations.
  • Sales & Partnership Development: Strong negotiation and partnership development skills, with experience working with retail locations, malls, or event venues.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and execute efficiently.
• Creativity: Innovative mindset with a passion for children’s entertainment and consumer engagement.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to represent the company to stakeholders at all levels.