Business Developer Energy Supply | Rijswijk

At TNO, one of our key strategic ambitions is building ““Future Proof Energy Systems”. Our program focuses on developing a resilient and sustainable energy system for the Netherlands, addressing critical challenges such as optimizing North Sea energy, reinforcing onshore infrastructure, enhancing storage and conversion solutions, and improving demand-side management. We take an integrated approach, tackling policy barriers leveraging innovation to maximize our impact as a leading enabler of the energy transition.

Introduction
Future proof energy systems and renewable energy are critical to the energy transition and will play an even more significant role in the future. It is a rapidly growing market with challenges that demand innovation—ranging from societal acceptance and efficient use of scarce space to cost-effectiveness and system integration with other renewable energy sources.

Our efforts are primarily concentrated on the strategic theme of smart networks for energy supply and grid optimization. This focuses on balancing and integrating the growing energy production from the North Sea with onshore systems.
 
We are developing and testing innovations through field laboratory demonstrations, digital solutions, and advanced energy management systems. By driving the creation of new knowledge and technologies, we aim to assess risks, unlock benefits, and ensure a secure, economic, stable, and resilient energy supply.

What will be your role?
As a Business Developer, you will contribute to creating innovative projects with public and private partners, ensuring groundbreaking ideas and solutions reach the market.
In this role, you will not only work alongside partners, including companies, government, and universities, but also network operators (DSOs & TSOs), industry partners, utilities and technical service providers. Developing projects and programs that support the energy transition and system integration and strengthen the Dutch industry.
 
You will be part of a motivated and dedicated team, collaborating closely with researchers (and consultants?) in Rijswijk and/or Petten to identify areas where progress and research can be applied. 

Your responsibilities will also include expanding TNO’s industrial and partner network. With extensive contact with (potential) clients, your role will involve frequent travel throughout the Netherlands.

You are a natural connector, skilled at building and maintaining a relevant network within the renewable energy sector. You excel at translating the needs and interests of current and potential clients into compelling research proposals, aligning your vision for renewable energy supply developments with TNO’s overarching strategy.

As a figurehead and stakeholder manager, you possess strong networking, negotiation, and consultative selling skills. You thrive in dynamic environments, adapt quickly, and are deeply passionate about driving impactful solutions for a greener future.

What else you bring:

• A Master’s degree (or PhD) in physics, materials science, or a related field.
• 10+ years’ experience in business development or similar role.
• A strong industry network (such as network operators (DSOs & TSOs), utilities, etc.) and knowledge of the Dutch renewable energy system(s).
• Familiarity with IT systems, cybersecurity, data science, AI, or big data is a plus.
• Experience with building research programs or projects, writing research proposals, and tendering processes.
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written).
• Proficiency in Dutch is a preference but not mandatory. Dutch language courses are available.

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 € 5.500,- and € 8.000,- (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:

• A good pension scheme.
• Travel allowance.
• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• 28 days annual leave and 5 compensation days under the reduction in working hours scheme (ATV, arbeidstijdverkorting) on a full-time basis.
• 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 and the possibility of working from home.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Young TNO.

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 and inclusion.

Please apply before February 16th, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on Wednesday February 19th, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for the following week. 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.