About this position

High-tech systems are becoming ever more complex, while the market expects faster innovation. How do you keep that manageable? TNO-ESI has been working on exactly that for over twenty years, together with companies such as ASML, Philips, Thales, Canon and Vanderlande. We are now extending this expertise to mission-critical infrastructure, defence and the maritime sector.

As Senior Business Developer, you shape that growth: from the first conversation with an R&D director to a funded multi-year programme. You join the team of business developers in TNO's Digital Systems business segment and work closely with ESI's specialists at the High Tech Campus Eindhoven.

What will be your role?

You work where technology, business and innovation policy meet. You see where industrial challenges and our research connect, and you build propositions, consortia and programmes around them. The result: national and European projects, often public-private partnerships with mixed funding.

• You develop new partnerships and programmes, with existing partners and in new markets such as defence, maritime and mission-critical infrastructure.
• You take ownership of the relationship with a number of partners. Project managers run the projects; you are responsible for the relationship, commercial continuity and follow-on opportunities.
• You build trusted relationships with funding bodies and policymakers, including the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and European programmes.
• You position systems engineering in the innovation landscape of tomorrow. From 2028, innovation funding in the Netherlands will change. You make sure ESI's value is visible in new policy and new programmes.
• You ensure programmes rest on a sound financial basis from the start and keep all stakeholders closely involved.

What we expect from you

You take ownership and turn opportunities into action, even before the solution is fully defined. You bring together industry needs, technological possibilities and public interests in a proposal partners are willing to commit to. You are at ease with R&D directors, researchers and policymakers alike, and move easily between those worlds. And you have your own view on how AI, systems of systems and engineering productivity will change the field in the years ahead.

You also have:

• A university degree in a technical discipline, such as mechanical or electrical engineering, computer science or a related field.
• At least eight years of experience in the high-tech or technical industry, with an affinity for industrial R&D and its system and software challenges.
• A proven track record in business development or acquisition: from strategic opportunity to funded programme.
• Enough understanding of systems engineering and digitalisation to build credible propositions, including systems thinking, system architecture, system integration and software development.
• Excellent command of Dutch and English.

It is a plus if you have:

• Experience with public funding bodies and Dutch or European innovation policy.
• A network within R&D management of large industrial organisations.
• Experience with, or affinity for, defence, the maritime sector or mission-critical infrastructure.

Not ticking every box, but confident that your experience and perspective will make a difference? Please apply anyway. We look forward to meeting you.

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 € 6000,- and € 8000,- (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 22nd of November. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. 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.