Marc Ruffet

Throughout my 15-year international career, I have gained a wealth of experience in various industries, having held roles such as a consultant at the United Nations, a commercial director in the travel industry, and a startup builder in a government-backed venture studio that specializes in AI and robotics solutions. My diverse background has allowed me to develop a unique perspective and an ability to adapt to new environments quickly. Additionally, I am a passionate entrepreneur and have successfully ideated and brought several startups in various fields such as travel tech, textile/apparel and e-learning to fruition.

In any business, I believe that transparency and empathy are integral values that are vital for success.

ENTREPENEUR IN RESIDENCE (EiR) – VENTURE TEAM I Dec’20 – Jan’23
AI and Robotics Ventures Co.Ltd., Bangkok/Geneva
Leading the management and growth of the venture studio’s new start-ups, overseeing all aspects of project development, including ideation, capital fundraising, commercialization, and operations.
Creating financial forecasts and business models with potential for significant revenue growth, utilizing the venture studio's in-house technology to penetrate new, high-value industries.
Acting as a representative for the venture team at Executive Committee meetings, effectively communicating progress and advocating for support throughout all stage-gates of ongoing projects.

CO-FOUNDER & PARTNER – HEAD OF GROWTH I Nov’17 – Present
Go Beyond Indochina Ltd., Hong Kong/Geneva
As Head of Growth, driving significant business expansion for a tour operator specializing in off-the-beaten-track, adventure experiences in 9 countries across Asia.
Managing and implementing lean finance and accounting practices across all company branches in Thailand, Vietnam and India.
Guaranteeing compliance with product standards and optimizing operational efficiency to increase commercial success and foster strong partnerships with key accounts and strategic partners.

FOUNDER – CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER I Apr’19 – Mar’22
iZZi guide by Nimble Solutions Co.Ltd., Bangkok
Launched a travel tech start-up, raising a US$ 300K seed round from private investors and angels.Implemented Lean Startup and S.A.F.E. methodologies for increased tech dev, financial and commercial efficiency. 
Built a diverse team of 5 full-time staff from various backgrounds and nationalities (Thai, US, Sweden and Swiss nationals).

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR – THAILAND I Jun’12 – Sep’17
Khiri Group Co.Ltd., Bangkok
Implementing commercial strategies to drive revenue growth and achieve sales targets, including identifying new market opportunities, creating sales plans and budgets, and managing local partners.
Overseeing Thailand sales team, providing direction and guidance to ensure constant promotion of the company's products and services, and achieving their sales targets.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders in the industry, such as travel agents, tour operators, and other partners.

COUNTRY MANAGER – LAOS I Aug’10 – May’12
Phoenix Voyages Group Ltd., Luang Prabang/Ho Chi Minh City
Managing the opening of the company’s new country office in Lao PDR.
Supervised negotiation & contracting with local suppliers and prospect partners.
Overseeing customer care and ensuring best service delivery for all travelers to Laos.
Handling staff recruitment, training & managing of the operation team. 
 

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT – ASEAN I Jul’07 – Jul’10
United Nations & International Labour Organization, Bangkok
Providing advisory services on the deployment of the Green Jobs Initiative in Asia. Assisted in the successful implementation of a joint project between UNEP, The Clinton Foundation & the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) on building retrofitting and eco-housing using project management methodologies.
Participating in the development of the "Green Jobs Assessment Tool" for the COP15 conference in Copenhagen in 2009.

2006-2008, Master Msc
UNIVERSITY OF GENEVA (UNIGe)
SWITZERLAND
Economics & Social Development in East Asia

2005-2006, Bachelor Bsc
KYOTO UNIVERSITY
JAPAN
Development Economics,
Food and Environment, International Monetary

2003-2005, Bachelor Bsc
UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANNE (UNIL)
SWITZERLAND
Geo-Sciences & Environment