Experienced Business Developer Air Quality

Our climate is changing, air quality continues to require attention, and biodiversity is under pressure. In addition, the availability of raw materials is decreasing, while consumption is increasing. It is therefore important to transition to a sustainable energy system and a circular economy. TNO works from a multidisciplinary perspective on the energy transition. This means that experts from various backgrounds develop knowledge, models, and tools on a range of subjects to help realise our future energy system. As a business developer, you focus on developing and marketing our value propositions within the energy transition. You work closely with partners and researchers. Together, you identify the challenges faced by society and the potential solutions.

As a business developer in air quality, you work with both private stakeholders and the Dutch (local) government, European governments, and government-related institutes. Our ambition, together with you, is to further build upon existing relationships on the public side of the market and expand our research and services to existing and new clients and stakeholders.

You are responsible for adequately managing the business development process: from initiation to realising the transaction, including consortium formation, contract negotiations, and after-sales processes. Building and maintaining relationships is an essential part of this. Additionally, you lead the development of innovative propositions, business development, and act as an orchestrator in the field of air quality.

Together with the relevant experts, you determine the commercial strategy for innovative contract research and concept development, based on thorough knowledge of the (government) market. You also help the experts in the department by linking your market-focused thinking with their in-depth expertise. You work alongside the team of Business Developers, consultants, project leaders, and management.
The Division EMT System Solution & Environment demonstrates the impact of new policies and technologies, designs system solutions, facilitates societal transition, and assesses environmental effects.

This enables governments, companies, and our society to create effective policies and adopt a future-proof approach.

Activities are bundled within four ‘propositions’ (high-level offerings to our stakeholders): Net Zero Energy Solutions, Behavioural & Societal Transition, Sustainability & Circularity Transition Pathways, and Climate & Air Quality. This vacancy is part of the Climate & Air Quality proposition. Within this proposition, (ultra)fine particulate matter is a topic in which we have a proven track record and aim to further expand in the coming years.

You are someone who gives direction to how we structurally improve air quality with vision and conviction. As a Business Developer, you take the lead and know exactly which steps are needed to realise our ambitions. You possess excellent communication skills and are a natural connector: you know how to bring together the knowledge within TNO and the input from external parties to achieve results. Thanks to your existing network within government agencies and public organisations—and ideally also within the business sector related to air quality and health—you effortlessly make new contacts and further develop existing relationships. In this role, your commercial insight, relationship management skills, ability to identify opportunities, perseverance, and coaching qualities are indispensable. With your energy and entrepreneurial spirit, you establish collaborations with both public and private partners, develop innovative proposals, and make a tangible contribution to scientific research that helps governments in their policy development. Join us, make an impact, and ensure with us that the Energy and Materials Transition can take place in a clean and healthy way!

What else do you bring?

• You are energised by achieving concrete results together with diverse stakeholders.
• You hold a completed master’s degree in a field directly relevant to air quality, such as chemistry, environmental sciences, or a related domain.
• You have at least five years of demonstrable experience in business development, consultancy, or (programme) management, in which you have set up and realised projects for both government agencies and the business sector.
• You are capable of managing the entire business development process: from conducting market research to successfully closing deals.
• You have gained experience in an (inter)national research or technological environment.
• You bring positive energy and humor to the team and are able to critically reflect on yourself and your colleagues when necessary, so that we continue to challenge each other and grow together.
• You have excellent command of both the Dutch (usually the working language for our assignments) and English language, both spoken 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 € 6.000,- and € 7.500,- (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 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.
• 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 18th of January, 2026 The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 26th of January 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 5th of February, 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.