CEO polySCOUT | Utrecht

Ready to make your mark on the future? Join polySCOUT as CEO in Utrecht.

About this position

CEO/Co-founder wanted for high-potential TNO spin-off to lead, build and shape a company from the start as one of the main founders (and shareholders). TNO, a renowned research institution, is establishing a spin-off company called polySCOUT. This venture aims to revolutionize the polymer industry by using AI (Machine Learning) to design and develop safe and sustainable new polymers. We are seeking an exceptional leader (CEO) to impact polySCOUT's next step in polymer development establishing its’ leading position in the polymer market.

What will be your role?

We’re looking to complete the founding team of a high-potential TNO spin-off working at the intersection of machine learning and advanced polymer materials.

As CEO and Co‑founder, you will lead polySCOUT’s market introduction by attracting investors, articulating a compelling value proposition, and defining the strategic roadmap, while continuously strengthening the organization and creating impact in the polymer industry. In close partnership with the product lead, you will develop the technology roadmap across materials informatics and polymer development including synthesis, testing, validation, and scale‑up to deliver safe, sustainable, and application‑specific high‑value polymer solutions. You will build and scale the polySCOUT team by identifying critical competencies, motivating experts, expanding capabilities, and hiring top talent to foster an inspiring and innovative environment.

Working closely with the polySCOUT‑TNO research and market teams, as well as clients and key stakeholders, you will shape a high‑value product proposition for a spin‑off and actively drive its development and launch. This role offers a rare opportunity to co‑found a company with an MVP already in place, rooted in TNO’s leading research capabilities and supported by strong market and investor connections, ongoing subsidy and showcase projects, and the backing of TNO Ventures to accelerate company formation through its extensive network and proven track record in launching successful start‑ups in the Netherlands. Success will be measured by achieving funding milestones, market traction, validated polymers and applications, customer pilots, and collaboration‑driven revenues.

What we expect from you

• Minimum of ten years of relevant work experience, including roles as an entrepreneur or senior leadership positions within technology-driven companies.
• Track record in financing, investments and/or start-up environments.
• Technical expertise in the polymer chemistry industry.
• Demonstrated entrepreneurial mindset, preferably with experience in starting up businesses.
• Strategic mindset to spot opportunities and solve challenges.
• Highly developed leadership mindset.
• The ability to build and motivate a cohesive team.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required. Proficiency in Dutch is an advantage.
• Fulltime, begin at your earliest convenience.

What you'll get in return

A unique opportunity to lead and shape a high-potential deep-tech start-up at an early stage. As CEO of polySCOUT, you will have the freedom and responsibility to build the company, define its strategy, and drive its growth from the ground up.

You will work closely with TNO and gain access to a strong network of experts, partners, and cutting-edge research in the field of sustainable materials. This role offers the chance to make real impact, translating innovation into a scalable business with societal relevance.

The position is structured in line with early-stage venture leadership roles, where reward is closely linked to the long-term success and growth of the company, including the opportunity to participate in its future value creation.

You will operate in an entrepreneurial, innovation-driven environment with significant autonomy, where your vision, leadership, and decisions directly shape the direction and success of polyScout.