Director Digital & Data

Join VITO as Director Digital & Data - Drive Our Digital & Data Transformation and Innovation

VITO is a Flemish independent research organization in the field of cleantech and sustainable development. Our goal? To accelerate the transition to a sustainable world. To maximize our impact, we focus on further strengthening our thought leadership in the field of sustainability and innovation, in line with global, European and Flemish challenges. This expertise and impact is situated in the following three areas:

• an economy based on sustainable use of raw materials
• solutions for climate adaptation and mitigation
• a sustainable living environment

In our new organizational model, we recognize the pivotal role of data, AI, software, and services across these areas. To achieve our ambitious digital & data goals, we have established the role of ‘Director Digital & Data'.

Position in the organization:

• Reports to the Director Environmental Intelligence for daily operations.
• Reports to the Direction Team to inform on progress of, and discuss the VITO data & AI strategy.

The managers of the Data & Analytics Competence Center and of the Product Development & Operational Services Competence Center report directly to you. Both teams together encompass 30+ FTE (and will need to grow). Furthermore you will very closely collaborate with:

• A central ICT service department
• A valorization and knowledge management team
• Three decentralized digital & data touchpoints within our business units

You will design the data & AI strategy of VITO and drive the implementation in close collaboration with the research units and domain experts. You will be the ambassador of VITO’s digital strategy and VITO’s digital and AI-powered technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Development: Develop and execute a digital and data strategy that aligns with VITO’s 2030 ambitions, ensuring all units are integrated.
• Transformation Roadmap: Formulate and implement a clear transformation roadmap to achieve the digital and data strategy.
• External Representation: Represent VITO in the digital realm, with a particular focus on AI and data, establishing our presence as a digital leader in the market.
• AI Solutions implementation: Collaborate with internal teams to implement AI solutions that improve business applications, leading to better valorisation of VITO’s applied research.
• Initiative Development: Initiate and shape new digital initiatives, driving innovation within the organization.
• Board Leadership: Organize, steer, and chair the VITO Data & Digital Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction.
• Operational Oversight: Monitor and ensure the effective functioning of the Data & Digital Operating Model.
• Internal Bridging: Act as a liaison between different teams and the executive management within VITO for Data & Digital, fostering collaboration and alignment.
• AI Trends monitoring: Maintain awareness of the latest AI trends and technologies.

Why Join VITO?

• Impact: Contribute to cutting-edge research and sustainable solutions with a focus on digital innovation.
• Leadership: Play a crucial role in shaping the digital future of a renowned research organization in sustainability research and applications.
• Collaboration: Work with diverse, highly skilled teams across various disciplines.
• Recognition: Elevate VITO’s presence and reputation in the digital space.

• PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial intelligence, Machine Learning or a related field
• Proven experience leading AI research and development
• Strong leadership skills
• Strategic and business know-how
• Relationship building and team development skills
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Extensive knowledge of the digital landscape, both nationally and internationally.
• Expertise in one or more areas related to data, AI, and software development.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with a diverse audience, ranging from researchers to policymakers.
• Experience with digital business models and valorization.

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for digital transformation and sustainability, we invite you to join VITO and make a significant impact on our journey towards a sustainable future.

Offer

• A competitive salary complemented by various extra-legal benefits including allowances, insurances, modular holiday package.
• Possibility to work at other locations (home, other VITO offices,...) for part of the working time.
• Innovation is our most important asset, so it goes without saying that we give our employees the opportunity to continue their education and development in their own field; moreover, we expect it.
• The opportunity to be part of an organization with an international reputation, which is known for its advanced technological research and scientific advice.