About this position
Since the 24th of February, 2022, the world has been facing a new reality, one that has only become increasingly unpredictable. Our society, political institutions, government, armed forces, knowledge institutions and civilian partners need to act faster to enhance the Netherlands’ digital resilience and strengthen the digital operational capabilities of its armed forces. As a knowledge institute, TNO plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, with more than 1,300 highly skilled professionals working on innovations for Defence & Security. In doing so, we actively contribute to a cyber-resilient society and armed forces that are highly effective in cyber operations, working in close collaboration with national and European partners.
Every working day is different, but one thing is certain: as a Business Developer in Cyber Security & Operations, you will be in constant contact with the Ministry of Defence, the Police, industry partners, other knowledge institutions and government organisations, as well as, of course, your colleagues at TNO. You will connect our clients’ needs with the Netherlands’ capacity for innovation and resilience, helping to develop new and meaningful capabilities for our armed forces, national security partners and industry.
What will be your role?
Together with a team at TNO, you will work on innovative solutions to enhance the security of specialist systems and highly classified environments, and to make cyber operations and the fight against cybercrime more effective. There is a great deal to be done in this area in the years ahead. That is why you will work closely with the Ministry of Defence, the Police and industry partners. You will take the initiative and help turn ideas into concrete projects that contribute as quickly as possible to developing military and other capabilities, while also strengthening cybersecurity as an essential part of the Netherlands’ broader resilience agenda.
You will build and maintain long-term relationships with our clients. You will actively connect long-term knowledge development with shorter-term technology projects.
You will keep up to date with developments in the field by, for example, attending national and international conferences and trade fairs, engaging with key stakeholders and regularly visiting a broad range of clients. In this way, you will contribute to the future readiness and operational effectiveness of the armed forces and to the security of the Netherlands in a rapidly changing world.
At TNO, you will join a team of experienced Business Developers within the Human & Organisational Effectiveness market team of the Defence, Safety & Security unit. Our goal? To enhance the effectiveness and cyber resilience of the Ministry of Defence, law enforcement agencies and intelligence services by developing smart, integrated solutions that bring together technology, people, processes, organisations and data. We also aim to contribute to a strong international position for Dutch industry.
The market team itself brings together colleagues from diverse backgrounds and with varying levels of experience. We support one another and confidently hand over responsibilities when needed. There is plenty of room to learn, enjoying your work is important to us, and we are always willing to help one another. After all, our enthusiasm for our profession and for defence and security is one of the things that brings us together.
What we expect from you
You have a strong interest in technology, defence and the national security domain. You combine a relevant professional background or affinity with an entrepreneurial, sociable and enthusiastic attitude, and you are able to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. You enjoy connecting with people and build relationships with ease, naturally bringing people and organisations together.
You are comfortable switching between different communication styles and operating in both national and international contexts. You provide structure and direction, for example in tender processes or partnerships with government organisations and industry, and are able to balance long-term objectives with short-term actions. You have an inquisitive and curious mindset and enjoy getting to the heart of complex challenges. You use your creativity to bring together the right expertise from across TNO.
What else do you bring?
- An academic working and thinking level.
- Demonstrable affinity with innovation, cybersecurity and/or cyber operations.
- At least 10 years of relevant professional experience, for example within the Ministry of Defence, the Police, or as a consultant or
- Business Developer in the private sector.
- Excellent command of both Dutch and English, spoken and written, at a minimum of C1 level.
Are you excited by what you have read so far and ready to make your mark in these challenging times? In your cover letter, we would like you to clearly demonstrate your affinity with innovation and the defence and security domain, as well as your enthusiasm for this role.
What you'll get in return
Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 4,800 and € 6,500 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.
TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:
- An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
- The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
- 33 days annual leave plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
- An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics.
- We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel or a lease car.
- Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
- Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
- A good pension scheme.
Read more about tailoring your benefits package.
TNO as an employer
Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.
Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.
At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.
The selection process
Please apply before the 21st of November, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 1st of December, 2026. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.
The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.
A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.
As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.
