Senior Business Developer

About This Position

Do you want to be involved in the further digitalization of the Dutch economy and society? Are you passionate about the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, specifically in the digital network infrastructure and cloud domains? Are you someone who makes connections easily, feels at home in a research setting, and thrives working in complex, multi-stakeholder settings? Then TNO is the right place for you!

What will be your role?

Within the TNO unit ICT, Strategy and Policy (ISP), we are looking for a Senior Business Developer (Fast Open Digital Infrastructures) to develop research, innovation, and advisory projects based on a broad interest and knowledge of cutting-edge digital network infrastructure and cloud technologies. In this role, you will also be responsible for selling them to existing and new clients.

Our unit ISP works predominantly in the following areas: Fast Open Digital Infrastructures, Data Sharing and AI, and Trusted ICT. A team of Business Developers and Sales Support are responsible for establishing a promising tender/proposal pipeline and converting the right opportunities into a successfully won project portfolio. Besides the private sector, we work closely with the Dutch government to further enhance their responsible digital transformation. With our contribution, we make the Dutch economy and society safer, more resilient, and successful. We ensure that the right questions are addressed and through thorough research, we offer innovative solutions to these challenges.

Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and convert opportunities, including public-private cooperations based on your knowledge and insight of the market.
• Play a key role in defining ISP’s commercial strategy with respect to contract research and large-scale public-private cooperations, TNO-wide.
• Manage complex, multi-stakeholder business development processes from initiation through consortia-forming and contract negotiations to after-sales.
• Identify and create platforms for innovative research programs and breakthrough projects within and outside of TNO.
• Take care of communications and updates about your projects and areas of expertise within TNO – ensuring the right information is available when needed.
• Arrange and coordinate funding and contracting processes with contributions from multiple parties, subsidies, and public funds.

What We Expect From You

• Intrinsic interest in cutting-edge digital network and cloud technologies.
• Passionate about relationship building, expanding networks, and identifying opportunities for further development.
• Completed higher educational degree and substantial demonstrable experience in successfully delivering complex, multi-stakeholder, research-focused commercial projects within IT, network infrastructure, and cloud technology.
• Extensive experience in setting up consortia or coalitions of the willing and familiarity with different financing instruments in the Dutch innovation landscape.
• Experience in working with (regional, national, and EU) Public-Private Partnership funding instruments.
• Versatile communicator with the ability to apply different negotiating styles to secure positive outcomes.
• Fluent in Dutch (at least B2 level) and excellent English skills.
• Experience in consultative selling, preferably in a public-private setting.

What You'll Get In Return

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. At TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary with a maximum of EUR 8,200 (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 on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community, and round tables on inclusion topics.
• A comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work part-time (32 or 36 hours), and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.

TNO as an Employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer, and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you, inspire you, and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters – impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation, you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

At TNO, we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.