Research Manager Economics & Innovation Policy (EIP)

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a Research manager at TNO in The Hague!

About this position

Geopolitical dynamics are shifting. Technological power positions are changing. Strategic dependencies are becoming increasingly visible. How do we ensure that the Netherlands and Europe remain economically strong, innovative and resilient in this context?

What will be your role?

Within TNO's Economics & Innovation Policy (EIP) research group, we work on these questions every day. We connect macro-economic analysis, technological developments and innovation policy into strategic perspectives for decision-makers at national and European level.

We are looking for a Research Manager to lead this group into its next phase — intellectually, organisationally and strategically.

EIP is part of TNO Vector within the ICT, Strategy & Policy (ISP) unit and is based in The Hague.

As Research Manager, you carry integral responsibility for the EIP research group, comprising approximately 29 highly qualified professionals.

You translate TNO Vector's strategy into a clear and coherent direction for the group, ensuring that intellectual ambition, market positioning and financial accountability remain in balance.

The research group operates at the heart of strategic policy questions, including:

• Economic and technological sovereignty;
• Strategic dependencies in global value chains;
• The role of key technologies and vital industries in European earning capacity;
• The effectiveness of innovation and industrial policy in a changing geopolitical context.

You shape this intellectual agenda and steer towards a high-quality, future-proof portfolio. The group's key clients are within central government — most notably the Ministry of Economic Affairs — and European institutions, while also maintaining active ties with the private sector and knowledge partners.

You are responsible for the quality and coherence of projects, the group's financial performance, and the sustainable development of knowledge and capacity. You represent the research group within TNO and in external networks, and contribute to the positioning of policy advisory work within TNO Vector and the ISP unit as a whole.

You also provide inspiring and connecting leadership to the professionals within EIP — creating an environment in which highly educated experts can excel, collaborate and deploy their expertise for maximum societal impact.

You report to the Director of Operations of the ISP unit and work closely with the other research managers of TNO Vector, the market director and the science director.

What we expect from you

You combine strategic insight with a genuine affinity for macro-economics, innovation policy and technology-related challenges. You are comfortable operating in governance-heavy, stakeholder-rich environments and understand the dynamics where policy, knowledge development and market forces converge.

You are able to provide direction to an academically oriented team without taking over the content itself. You know how to position high-level expertise and connect societal impact, intellectual excellence and financial responsibility.

You also bring:

• At least 3 years of line management responsibility experience in a complex, project-driven organisation.
• Academic working and thinking level.
• Experience in a context where policy, knowledge and market intersect.
• Demonstrated affinity with economic and strategic technology and innovation issues.
• Excellent command of both Dutch and English.

You lead with inspiration and connection, are able to challenge professionals at a high level, and create a culture in which quality, collaboration and development are central.

What you'll get in return

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 € 7,000 and € 9,200 (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:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• 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, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.

TNO as an employer

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.