Market Manager Marine & Industry | The Hague

From autonomous underwater systems – such as drones – to acoustic detection technology: TNO develops solutions that the Royal Netherlands Navy can use to protect our country. Solutions that you can learn all about with us! Because in a world that is tilting and in which conflicts such as in Ukraine are sharpening geopolitical relations, the urgency for that technology is greater than ever. You are the strategic market manager who accelerates maritime innovation in collaboration with industry and arrives at suitable solutions for Defence. So that the people who defend our country have the best technology at their disposal. Your time to make a difference? It is now!

How do you track underwater drones before they cause damage? How do you ensure reliable communication between autonomous submarine systems during a maritime mission? And how can naval vessels practice without disrupting the ecosystem? You read it: the Acoustics and Underwater Warfare division focuses on research and technological developments that are urgent and impactful. Innovations in the field of acoustics and sensor technology, including for the navy, but also for the high-tech industry. And you? You ensure that our innovations really reach practice. 

As a market manager, you ensure cooperation and acceleration. You build relationships with industrial partners, so that our state-of-the-art developments are actually produced. In addition, you have close contact with Defence, so that you know exactly which innovations the navy needs. You develop market plans and determine where the focus lies. And you provide direction to the team of business developers, who also maintain contacts with the market. You facilitate them, stimulate development and ensure that the team grows, literally and figuratively. You will also investigate which international defense organizations are interesting for cooperation, working on a matching market strategy and building relevant ecosystems. 

The technology is there, the urgency too. Now it is up to you to make an impact.

Maritime defence and security | TNO

Do you recognize yourself in our leadership profile? 
At TNO we welcome people who want to shape the world of tomorrow. In a leadership role, you also leave your mark on the times. By inspiring with a clear vision of the future. But also by creating a home for various generations and perspectives. Embracing differences is self-evident to you, and you like to involve your colleagues in this. In any case, you get energy from guiding, stimulating and facilitating professionals - in the way that suits them. You help them discover what they can do and believe in it. And you challenge them to push boundaries. 

Your gaze is focused on the outside world. You know what is going on around us. With an entrepreneurial mindset, you build relevant networks, follow market trends and investigate commercial opportunities. In this way, you and your team make solutions possible for issues and challenges that really matter. You understand that these challenges are constantly changing and that technology is developing faster than ever. And you also understand what that requires of you. That you move along and continuously adapt your leadership style to new situations. Great, because that's how your leadership innovates too. 
Good to know: a number of competencies that we select for match this profile. Do you want to know which ones? Ask one of the contacts listed at the bottom of this vacancy. In an assessment, we investigate whether you have these competencies and in which areas you can possibly develop further.

We understand that you may not yet know everything about acoustics or underwater technology. What matters is that you have the drive to delve into this. You have a strategic and results-oriented view, and the communication and commercial skills to move smoothly in the world of Defense and industry. Within this complex playing field, you move with a sense of the relationships and interests at stake. You also pay attention to the people around you. You know how to motivate, facilitate and grow a team.

What you also bring:

• University degree.
• Experience in a relevant commercial position, such as a role in market development, business development or strategic account management.
• Commercial experience in an industrial environment and the public domain, and a relevant network. Do you already have experience with the navy? Then that is a bonus.
• Experience in successfully leading a market-oriented team in an innovative and industrial environment.
• A good command of Dutch and English, both written and spoken.

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 [€ X,XXX] and [€ X,XXX] (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[OPTIONAL] or a leased 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 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• [OPTIONAL FOR JUNIORS] Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• [OPTIONAL FOR JUNIORS] Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• [OPTIONAL FOR PROJECT MANAGERS] Access to TNO’s project managers guild: a network of some three hundred equals. The guild organizes workshops, conferences, intervision sessions and other activities for project managers.
• [OPTIONAL FOR IMPATS] 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 9th of July, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 17th and 21st of Jylu, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 29th of July. 2025. 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 Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.

Only applicable to internal applicatios:
If you are interested, we welcome your application. To qualify for an LD job, you are requested to write a reflection report in accordance with the Dutch or English format. Please upload your CV, covering letter and reflection report using the ‘apply now’ button. We will evaluate your match with the profile, on which you will receive feedback. Would you like to know more about the LD procedure? Read more, or contact the LD consultant.