Ali Kiai

Experience

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  ASEF think tank

  Jan 2017 - Feb 2019

  Researcher

  Developed technology roadmaps for research institutes to guide long-term innovation efforts and align with strategic goals.Conducted strategic planning for innovation institutes, fostering sustainable growth.Designed and implemented innovation strategies to drive technological advancements.Performed environmental scanning to identify and assess emerging technologies and trends.

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  IChallenge Iran | چالشهای فناوری و نوآوری ایران

  Aug 2019 - Sept 2020

  Open Innovation Project Coordinator

  Designed and executed open innovation contests in high-tech domains, aimed at solving critical technological challenges faced by the industry.Monitored project progress and prepared detailed reports to ensure alignment with objectives and timelines.Collaborated with diverse stakeholders, including industry partners, sponsors, and team members, to drive project success.Developed comprehensive proposals and contracts, ensuring clarity and alignment with project goals.Maintained thorough project documentation to support transparency, knowledge sharing, and future initiatives. Show less

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  Saba Innovation Centre

  Oct 2020 - May 2021

  Senior Planning Expert

  Designed comprehensive business accelerator processes to support startup growth and development.Coordinated and organized a successful pitch deck event, facilitating connections between startups and potential investors.Guided startup teams throughout the acceleration process, providing mentorship and strategic advice.Monitored and evaluated accelerator teams, focusing on performance metrics and readiness for fundraising.

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  Persol Venture Capital

  May 2021 - Mar 2025

  VC Analyst
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  Persol

  May 2021 - Mar 2025

  Contributed to over 20 market research projects to expand the company's import portfolio, focusing on chemical, polymer, food, cellulose, and wood sectors.Supported more than 10 international sourcing projects, evaluating product portfolios and resolving sales challenges.Participated in five comprehensive feasibility studies for new business lines in textiles, food and beverage, and solar energy industries.Engaged in research and development projects, driving innovation and branch geographic expansion.Extracted actionable insights from data, delivering reports and management dashboards to support strategic decision-making.Awarded "Team of the Year" in 2024 for outstanding performance and collaboration. Show less Participated in over 40 investment evaluation and due diligence projects, ensuring thorough analysis and strategic insights.Monitored key performance indicators (KPIs) for portfolio startups, identifying trends and areas for improvement.Contributed to over 15 R&D initiatives exploring new business lines and market opportunities.Played a key role in a CSR project focused on enhancing the capabilities of statups.Prepared detailed analytical reports for presentation to the investment committee, supporting data-driven decision-making.Awarded "Team of the Year" in 2022 for outstanding performance and collaboration. Show less

  • Business Development Specialist

    Apr 2023 - Mar 2025

  • VC Analyst

    May 2021 - Mar 2023