R&D Team Manager PROBIO

R&D Team Manager PROBIO

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

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.

On the other hand, existing industrial processes are reconsidered in the light of more energy and material efficient process operations where material shaping, separation technology (a.o. sorbents and membranes), chemistry, electrochemistry and bioprocess technology are applied 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’. 

As R&D Team Manager of the Bioprocesses team (PROBIO, part of the MatCh unit), you are responsible for the research, development and optimization of fermentation and enzymatic processes, as well as the pre-treatment and down-stream processing of biomass.

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

Job Description

• As a leader of a team comprising 10-15 researchers, laboratory technicians, and support staff, 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.
• Your team will be part of a larger department (led by the Program Manager), and as the R&D 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.
• 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 monitor 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 performing in-depth scientific analyses and applying findings to strategic development, consolidating project proposals and valorization 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 defense of proposals to clients will ensure successful project initiation.
• Based on your 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 identify valorization 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.

Requirements

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

What can we offer you?

• 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.