R&D Team Manager GOAL

VITO is a technological research organization in the field of sustainable development. We perform breakthrough research to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable society.

To maximize our impact, we focus our innovation in three domains:

1. Accelerate the circularity of the economy.
2. Improve the living environment of people.
3. Adapt and mitigate climate change

VITO's 1300 talented visioneers provide industry and governments with excellent technological solutions, digital applications, (pilot) infrastructure and policy advice on a local and international level.

Join us to build a better future.

Within the MatCh (Materials & Chemistry) unit, we investigate the use of non-fossil, mineral and circular raw materials to make industry more sustainable and enable new value chains.

Also, existing industrial processes are reconsidered to make them more cost, energy, and material efficient. Advanced material shaping, separation technologies, chemistry, electrochemistry, and bioprocess technology are the key focus areas to enable this.

We are convinced that besides technological innovations, broader societal innovations among policymakers and companies are crucial in this transition.

In line with this vision, VITO is looking for an R&D Team Manager for the GOAL (Gespecialiseerd Organisch & Anorganisch Laboratorium) team.

The VITO-GOAL laboratory specializes in organic and inorganic analysis. Every year, it processes over 150 projects. The laboratory rarely carries out standard measurements. Most of its work is “made-to-measure”; especially made to fit the client’s demands. Clients often approach the laboratory with a specific problem or question, rather than wanting to know which analysis they would need. Our analytical team proposes a plan of approach, and it helps provide solutions. The laboratory has a wide range of technology at its disposal; from simple to highly sophisticated equipment. Our customers are players in various industries: chemistry, food, pharmaceutics. Any complex question can be answered by the VITO-GOAL laboratory.

The R&D Team Manager will report directly to the Program Manager of the GOAL department.

Tasks & responsibilities

• As a manager of a team of researchers and laboratory technicians your role would include coaching, supervising, and motivating team members to encourage their commitment and growth. You will manage the development and performance of your team, ensuring each member can thrive according to their unique talents.
• Your team will be part of a larger department (led by the Program Manager), and as the R&D Team Manager, you will promote and boost collaboration among the teams and experts to achieve mutual goals and enhance the overall effectiveness of the department.
• You’ll oversee the operational follow-up of research projects within your team. You’ll manage the allocation and scheduling of team members for project needs, considering capacity, knowledge, skills and experience. You check this in close collaboration with the Program Manager and Unit’s project management office.
• Together with your team, you will conduct comprehensive needs analyses to understand client 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 in-depth technical analyses and applying findings to strategic development, consolidating project proposals and valorisation plans to ensure alignment with the organizational goals.
• Overseeing the entire project acquisition process, including needs analyses, tender preparation, client presentations, and budget acquisition, will be crucial in this role. Effective communication and defence of proposals to clients will ensure successful project initiation.
• Based on your industrial and market experience and in close collaboration with the Unit Directors and your Program Manager, you will also submit ideas and proposals for the optimalisation of the research programme, set up relevant projects and find valorisation opportunities.
• 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.

Job requirements

• You hold a Ph. D in the broad field of Science and can combine this with a proven track record in needs analysis, project acquisition, and scientific research management.
• You have a demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a multidisciplinary team and can inspire this team with your strong strategic thinking and critical thinking skills.
• You have significant industry experience 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 research and development.
• You have effective communication and networking skills, 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 an initiative-taking and results-oriented approach with a strong focus on continuous improvement of procedures, guidelines, and efficiency.

What can we offer you?

• You will lead a team engaged in pioneering work within a rapidly developing technology field and be 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 gain experience and develop both on the job and through training.
• We work activity-based, allowing our activities to determine our location. As a people manager, it is important for you to be frequently present in Mol, where your team is primarily based.