Earth Observation Platform Team Manager

VITO is a Flemish independent research organization in the field of cleantech and sustainable development. Our goal? Accelerating 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 located in the following three domains:

1. an economy based on sustainable use of raw materials

2. solutions for climate adaptation and mitigation

3. a sustainable living environment

-The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it-

​Within the Environmental Intelligence unit, our vision is a world ​in which the power of science, intelligence and technology is harnessed ​to create a resilient and sustainable future for our society, the environment, and the economy. Our mission is to provide ​real-world answers to ​real-world challenges, ​to safeguard our planetary boundaries, our health ​and our well-being.

We are convinced that besides technological innovations, broader societal innovations among policymakers and companies are crucial in this transition. In this context, VITO develops, maintains and operates Copernicus Land and Climate services for customers such as the European Commission, European Environmental Agency and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts.

In line with this vision, VITO is looking for an ‘Earth Observation Platform Team Manager’. The Team Manager will report directly to the Program Manager of the relevant team.

Job Description

• As a leader of a growing team comprising 15-20 researchers, IT architects/engineers and project managers, your role would include coaching, supervising, and motivating team members to encourage their commitment and growth. You will be responsible for the development and performance management of your team, ensuring each member can thrive according to their unique talents.

• You’ll oversee the follow-up of engineering activities and management of selected projects within your team related to ground segment Earth Observation platforms. You’ll manage the allocation and scheduling of team members for project needs, considering capacity, knowledge, skills and experience. You monitor this in close collaboration with the Program Manager and the PMO-office.

• Your team will be part of a larger department (led by the Program Manager), and as the Team Manager, you will be tasked with promoting and boosting collaboration among the different teams and experts. By linking people with each other, you will work to achieve mutual goals and enhance the overall effectiveness of the department.

• Together with your team and in cooperation with internal and external stakeholders, you will conduct comprehensive needs analyses to understand new client and market requirements and develop tailored solutions using your scientific insights. By integrating these insights into strategic lines, you will create and refine concepts and models for short to medium-term applications. Your role also involves performing in-depth scientific analyses together with the relevant scientists and applying findings to strategic development, consolidating project proposals and valorization plans to ensure alignment with the organizational goals.

• In close collaboration with Business Development, oversee the entire project acquisition process, including needs analyses, tender preparation, client presentations, and budget acquisition, which will be crucial in this role. Effective communication and defense of proposals to clients will ensure successful project initiation.

• By monitoring market developments and social trends, you will inform strategic choices and contribute to decision-making with team experts and senior researchers. Translating these strategic choices into actionable roadmaps will guide the development of new and existing services and products.

• Expanding and maintaining a network of internal and external contacts, including international connections, will be essential. Utilizing this network, you will achieve excellence, defend VITO’s interests, and represent your team in various forums, cultivating relationships beyond the immediate specialist field. The end goal is to maximize the impact of our EO platforms in society, measured by KPI’s, and ensure long-term stability and continuity.

• You have a Master's degree, PhD, or equivalent in a relevant scientific field and can combine this with a proven track record in needs analysis, project acquisition, management, and scientific research management in geospatial data.

• You have a demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a multidisciplinary team and can inspire this team with your strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

• You have significant industry experience with Earth Observation services such as Copernicus and deep understanding of industry-specific challenges and opportunities. You’re eager to stay up to date of market trends, social trends, and transitions within the field of Earth Observation research and development.

• You have hands-on experience in the setup and bid management of European tenders.

• You have strong communication, networking skills and growth mindset with the ability to effectively persuade, negotiate, and collaborate at various organizational levels. You can easily adapt to changing circumstances and act as a promoter and facilitator for both internal and external collaborations.

• You have a proactive and results-oriented approach with a strong focus on continuous improvement of procedures, guidelines, and efficiency.

A NATO security clearance is required for this position and will be part of the onboarding process.

Offer

• You will have the opportunity to lead a team engaged in pioneering work within the research area, being part of an organization internationally renowned for its cutting-edge technological research and scientific advice.

• We offer a competitive salary complemented by various fringe benefits, including allowances, insurances, and a flexible holiday package.

• Innovation is our main asset, so we provide our employees with opportunities to learn and develop both on the job and through training.

• We work activity-based, allowing our activities to determine our location. Hybrid working and the option to work in satellite offices in Antwerp-Berchem, Ghent, Ostend, or Genk is possible. However, as a people manager, it is important for you to be frequently present in Mol, where your team is primarily based.