Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board – Autonomous EV Fleets & Robotics
REACHXIndependent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board – Autonomous EV Fleets & Robotics Location: United States (Remote / Travel as needed for board meetings) Time Commitment: Approx. 2–3 days per month (higher during funding/M&A cycles) Client: ReachX client engagement About the Company Our client is a high-growth robotics pioneer delivering hands-free, autonomous charging solutions for electric vehicle (EV) fleets. Product: Its flagship solution features an AI-driven robotic arm mounted on an overhead rail using soft robotics and computer vision to automatically detect charging ports and plug in without human intervention. The unit operates across all EV types, connector standards, and charger brands, achieving a >99.9% plug-in success rate in live deployments. Market: Primary focus is on robotaxi and autonomous depot operations, with plans expanding toward a broader depot automation platform (including interior cleaning and inspection). Funding & Stage: ~$56M raised to date (backed by premier international VCs, corporate venture units, and public investment banks). Next Phase: Transitioning from validated pilots to volume rollout across North America and Europe scheduled for 2027. Role Purpose The Chair will guide the Board and executive leadership as the business transitions from a venture-backed deep-tech innovator into a scaled global industrial enterprise. We are seeking a US-based Non-Executive Chair with proven leadership in the robotic, electric vehicle (EV) fleet, or autonomous vehicle (AV) sectors. The Chair will run an effective board, advise the CEO, unlock commercial doors across North American fleet operators and automotive OEMs, and shepherd major capital transactions (Series B, growth capital, and M&A). Key ResponsibilitiesDomain Leadership, Strategy & High-Stakes Decision-Making EV & Robotics Strategy: Lead the Board in evaluating and approving key strategic decisions as the company transitions from depot pilots to mass commercial rollout in autonomous EV fleet markets. Platform Expansion: Shape critical strategic choices regarding platform extensions (depot automation, interior cleaning, inspection), pricing models, and contract manufacturing partnerships. Commercial Access: Leverage executive connections within the EV fleet, robotaxi, and automotive ecosystem to connect the company with major autonomous fleet operators, vehicle OEMs, and energy/infrastructure players. Fundraising, Capital & M&A Fundraising Leadership: Architect and lead the strategy for upcoming growth capital rounds (Series B and beyond), helping secure high-caliber US and international lead investors across mobility, deep-tech, and energy funds. M&A & Strategic Transactions: Spearhead the Board’s evaluation and execution of potential M&A opportunities, strategic joint ventures, OEM partnerships, and long-term exit strategies. Investor Alignment: Maintain alignment across a diverse global cap table spanning institutional VCs, corporate venture arms, and strategic backers. Board Governance & Leadership Board Operations: Chair Board meetings (6–8 annually), establishing agendas focused squarely on commercial strategy, risk mitigation, operational scale-up, and value creation. Board Composition: Design the optimal balance of executive, investor, and independent seats, establishing required sub-committees (Audit, Remuneration, Nomination). Governance Standards: Maintain reporting, safety, and compliance standards expected by growth investors, automotive OEM partners, and potential acquirers. Executive Partnership & Mentorship CEO Partner: Serve as an authoritative sounding board, mentor, and sparring partner for the CEO without stepping into day-to-day executive execution. Executive Recruitment: Lead annual CEO performance reviews and support senior US hiring (CFO, US Managing Director, Vice President of Scale-Up Operations). Candidate ProfileEssential Experience & Expertise EV Fleet, AV, or Robotics Sector Expertise: Signif…