Innovation Orchestrator – Defensie en Industrie | The Hague

The world is facing major challenges: scarcity of space, time and natural resources demands fundamental systemic change. These changes are complex. Various stakeholders such as companies, governments and sectors are interdependent, while their interests often differ. This is exactly why strategic choices and collaboration are vital. Only together can we shape the future.

With a strong sense of vision, you pinpoint where joint innovation can truly make a difference. You connect the right partners around a shared goal and turn joint ambitions into tangible collaboration. You take initiative in forming and guiding these often public-private consortia.

You operate across multiple levels simultaneously, from individual companies to regional ecosystems, national agendas and European innovation frameworks. In this dynamic context, you design and lead innovation programs that drive real change. You actively engage and inspire stakeholders, ensuring alignment around a shared roadmap. Throughout the process, you maintain strategic oversight and provide clear direction.

An essential part of your role is to consistently connect TNO’s technological expertise to the programs you lead. In doing so, you amplify the impact of both TNO and its partners. Your primary focus lies in defense and the high-tech industry, areas where innovation and collaboration are of strategic importance.

Questions you will encounter:

• How should existing ecosystems be adapted and new ecosystems developed to achieve goals such as strategic autonomy or a strong defense force? Who takes on which role? And how does this affect the earning potential of individual companies?
• How can we scale up new innovative industries, and what role do business models play in this? And how can we realize this as quickly as possible?
• How do you encourage stakeholders to jointly establish new business models around innovations? How are these new forms of collaboration financed, by whom, and for what purpose?

At BFM, 35 consultants and scientists work toward a single mission: accelerating sustainable growth in the European industry through innovation. We support companies, sectors and governments in making well-informed decisions, grounded in clear economic and business analyses. This establishes a strong foundation for policies and investments that deliver meaningful results.

What sets our work apart is our focus beyond technology alone. We convert technological possibilities into new collaborative models between organizations. Through this approach, we facilitate structural change and enable effective transitions.

You are a natural connector who effortlessly builds relationships and navigates between different disciplines and sectors. You have the resilience to set a clear vision and remain committed to it. At the same time, you are flexible enough to respond effectively to change. You possess a strong drive, are entrepreneurial, and take ownership of the challenges you face. You enjoy collaborating with others, are genuinely curious about what drives them, and know how to engage and motivate people effectively. You communicate transparently and demonstrate perseverance, even when projects are long and complex.

Other strengths you possess?

• A completed Master’s or PhD degree, for example in Innovation Management or Industrial Design.
• Extensive experience in setting up and leading complex consortia or innovation programs.
• Proven track record of successfully completing projects where new technology played a decisive role.
• Experience securing funding for complex innovations from a variety of public and private sources.
• An recently obtained NATO-B clearance or are willingness to obtain it.
• Good knowledge of the Dutch and English language. Verbally and written.

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 € 5,761 and € 7,692 (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.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• 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 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

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: who 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. Read more about TNO as an employer.

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. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 8th of October, 2025. 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.

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.