EU Liaison Officer

Brussels is changing, and VU Amsterdam wants a stronger position there. As EU Liaison Officer, you'll build the network and strategy to make that happen, with plenty of room to shape the role yourself.

Your function

Background

The European Union is entering a new policy period: the new European Commission is working on a new Multiannual Financial Framework, which will include the successor to Horizon Europe and a new Competitiveness Fund. This creates opportunities for VU Amsterdam, particularly in light of decreasing budgets in the Netherlands.

The upcoming retirement of the current EU Liaison Officer gives VU Amsterdam the opportunity to reconsider how Brussels representation is organised. The aim is to start from the themes in which VU is already strong, build network and strategy from there, and at the right moment broaden the focus to include, among other things, the alumni network in Brussels.

Context

The EU Liaison Officer will work at Institutional Affairs/ Impact & Funding, within the dynamic network around impact & funding. In as far as possible, a transitional overlap construction will be used to enable a careful handover from the current EU Liaison Officer.

The role follows a phased approach: initially the focus is on strengthening VU's internal foundation through internal prioritisation, network and strategy; from that foundation, the role will then expand towards greater visibility and presence in Brussels through the “ink blot” strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Identifying funding opportunities in the field of research & innovation funding through effective horizon scanning at an early stage.
• Building momentum and support within VU, centrally and at faculty level, for EU-related activities.
• Representing VU in Brussels, both in terms of profile-raising and advocacy.
• Bringing clear focus to VU's EU activities and funding, and building an internal VU network of colleagues who recognise the importance of EU-related work.
• Building and maintaining contacts in Brussels, including with the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European University Association (EUA), Aurora, Neth-ER and UNL.
• In the longer term: ensuring strong VU representation in Horizon advisory and sounding-board groups in the Netherlands and Brussels, building coalitions around VU priorities in research and education, achieving policy impact, conducting advocacy, and building and leveraging the VU alumni network.

Where the need comes from

The need for this role has been articulated from several parts of the organisation.

Profile-raising

VU identifies a need for stronger, more visible positioning in Brussels, aiming to build a clear public face that supports other objectives. Being seen as an interesting, visible partner should lead to VU being approached more quickly for attractive opportunities, for example by getting VU colleagues into prominent positions and deploying VU expertise for policy-level impact.

International relationship management

Building relationships with key partners in Brussels includes creating connections for lobbying purposes with the European Commission, the European Parliament and international networks such as the EUA; representing VU’s views, stakes and interests through participation in advisory groups and evaluation committees; developing education partnerships by unlocking opportunities and building the network around VU's alliance and direct relationships; and providing input on new policy proposals directly and via umbrella organisations.

Spotting opportunities

By strengthening VU's profile and relationships, VU can respond faster and more effectively to opportunities in policy development, funding and collaboration. This includes connecting VU researchers to relevant opportunities and networks and liaising with the relevant support teams within VU.

Alumni relations

Brussels is home to a substantial number of VU alumni. This network remains underused and can contribute to realising VU’s vision for education, research and innovation.

Your profile

Brussels is a dynamic environment with many different types of professionals operating in it. Given the priorities outlined above, the following profile is sought for the role of VU EU Liaison Officer:

• A mid/senior-level professional with a demonstrable track record in Brussels.
• Skilled at building both internal and external networks.
• Experience with EU funding, combined with a strong understanding of the wider value of representation and profile-raising.
• Ability to position oneself effectively within VU and identify the right internal stakeholders to involve, using the hub-and-spoke model.
• Has the network and/or experience to quickly elevate VU's existing standing in Brussels, and can rapidly gain access to the right people and organisations.
• Understands the importance of reciprocity: bringing knowledge and insight, not only gathering it.
• Works well with colleagues in Amsterdam, in the broader Dutch context and in Brussels to create opportunities and deliver impact.

Qualifications

• A master's degree in a relevant field, such as European Studies, Public Policy, Innovation Management, International Relations or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in EU funding acquisition, innovation ecosystems, public affairs or strategic partnerships, with demonstrable experience in building and managing international consortia and partnerships.
• In-depth knowledge of EU institutions, policies and funding programmes, in particular Horizon Europe.
• Experience with advocacy, policy influencing and/or representation in EU networks is a strong asset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Creative thinking, well-developed analytical and synthesis skills, and the ability to draft position papers, reports, presentations and other written materials.
• English (C1); a good working knowledge of Dutch (B1) is a strong asset; proficiency in other EU languages is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel regularly and stay abroad, for example in Brussels.

Competencies

• Situational awareness: You have a sharp eye for political and administrative developments and understand which interests and players are at play. You have a clear overview of the field you operate in and can identify opportunities, risks and key moments at the right moment.
• Political sensitivity: You have a good sense of relationships and sensitivities. You understand how decision-making works and know when and through which route to achieve the greatest effect. You act carefully in politically sensitive situations.
• Judgement: You can grasp complex issues and carefully weigh competing interests. You foresee the consequences of choices and arrive at a clear, well-substantiated position. Where necessary, you make clear decisions.
• Persuasiveness: You communicate your views clearly and convincingly. You are able to bring administrators and other stakeholders along in your analysis and advice, and build support for the choices made.
• Providing direction: You set a clear course and determine priorities. You provide direction to the effort and monitor progress. You take responsibility for the outcome.

What do we offer?

• Position based within Institutional Affairs/ Impact & Funding, working closely within the impact & funding network.
• Up to two days per week, including an overnight stay, in Brussels to build contacts and network.
• A contract for initially 1 year with the possibility of extension subject to good performance.
• A position as EU Liaison Officer based on the university ranking system (UFO) of Knowledge Valorisation Officer 2 for a minimum of 0.8 fte.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.

About us

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely - a broader mind. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research.