Business & Relationship Developer Remote Sensing Systems & Technology

VITO; Mol; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Flexible working arrangements

Hybrid work model

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

VITO in Mol seeks a seasoned Business Developer to grow the Remote Sensing Systems & Technology portfolio by identifying new market opportunities, forming strategic partnerships, and securing research and innovation projects.

You hold a Master’s degree in Science or Engineering and have 5+ years’ experience building networks in Earth observation and data analytics, with a proven record in European-funded projects and international collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Science or Engineering is required.
• At least 5 years building networks and developing research projects in Earth observation and data analytics.
• Experience initiating and securing ESA and other European-funded projects is a strong asset.
• Extensive and active network relevant to portfolio development; understands policy makers and industry stakeholders nationally and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Expand the Remote Sensing Systems & Technology portfolio by identifying new market opportunities, initiating partnerships, and securing research and innovation projects.
• Understand business models for commercialising products and services within this domain.
• Monitor research calls and tenders (Horizon Europe, ESA, VLAIO, De Blauwe Cluster, BELSPO); identify synergies and initiate proposal development.
• Build and maintain a strong network of partners, customers, and funding organisations; nurture long-term client relationships.
• Promote VITO's research and innovation activities to governments, international organisations, research institutes, and companies.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and other Business Developers to ensure an integrated approach.
• Ensure a smooth and effective commercial process within the unit.

Skills

Networking

Business development

Stakeholder engagement

Proposal development

Education

Master's degree in Science or Engineering

Job description

VITO is a leading research and innovation organisation driving the sustainability transition for industry and governments, both in Belgium and internationally. We support our clients with practical expertise and innovative solutions to address the challenges of today and tomorrow.

VITO is a key player in quality control, calibration, and the processing of Earth observation and remote sensing data. Data from satellites, drones, and fixed sensors are collected, calibrated, validated, and processed for a wide range of applications. Within the Remote Sensing Systems & Technology unit, we support sectors such as water management, energy, infrastructure, and the maritime industry, while also playing a vital role in security and disaster response.

Your Role

• Your mission is to expand the Remote Sensing Systems & Technology portfolio by identifying new market opportunities, initiating strategic partnerships, and securing research and innovation projects.
• You have a solid understanding of the various business models for commercialising products and services within your domain.
• You monitor research calls and tenders in this field (e.g. Horizon Europe, ESA, VLAIO, De Blauwe Cluster, BELSPO), identify synergies with VITO's expertise and technologies, initiate proposal development, and collaborate with researchers to create compelling project proposals.
• You build and maintain a strong network of potential partners, customers, and funding organisations (European Commission, governments, etc.), while nurturing long‑term client relationships.
• You actively promote VITO's research and innovation activities to governments, international organisations, research institutes, and companies.
• You work closely with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, administrative staff, and commercial colleagues.
• You collaborate with other Business Developers across teams and units to ensure an integrated approach.
• In close cooperation with your colleagues, you help ensure a smooth and effective commercial process within the unit.

Job requirements

• You hold a Master's degree in Science or Engineering, complemented by a strong business and commercial background.
• You have at least 5 years of experience in building networks and developing research projects in the field of Earth observation, data analytics, and related applications.
• Experience in initiating and securing ESA and other European‑funded projects is considered a strong asset.
• You have an extensive and active network relevant to the development of your portfolio. You understand the roles of policy makers and industry stakeholders in this field, both nationally and internationally, and possess the commercial and technical expertise required to engage with them effectively.
• You are resilient, flexible, and willing to travel abroad on short business trips and attend networking events.
• You are fluent in both English and Dutch, spoken and written.

You have a customer‑oriented and commercial mindset and position yourself as a trusted advisor and partner. With strong interpersonal and empathetic skills, you quickly grasp the essence of a question and translate it into practical and innovative solutions. You are able to convince and inspire others, take initiative, collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.

Offer

• You will work for a leading research and innovation organisation with an international reputation in technological research.
• You will contribute to sustainable development in Flanders and far beyond.
• We offer a competitive salary package, complemented by a broad range of fringe benefits, flexible working arrangements, and an excellent work‑life balance.
• You will be based on VITO's campus in Mol, working according to an activity‑based workplace model, with opportunities for hybrid working from home or from other VITO locations.
• You will have access to extensive learning and professional development opportunities.
• You will become part of a team of 1,400 colleagues who are working together towards a more sustainable future.