Program Manager
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Posted on:
Yesterday
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Description
The world is evolving at a fast pace. Geopolitical tensions hybrid threats and growing uncertainty increasingly affect our societies and daily lives. Against this backdrop the Flemish Government launched the Flemish Defence Plan in April 2025 * bringing together security resilience and economic development. Knowledge institutions including VIB are actively involved with the aim of deploying Flemish scientific and technological expertise more strategically and strengthening preparedness for todays and tomorrows challenges.
VIB is an entrepreneurial strategic research institute in life sciences that focuses on fundamental science aa well as translating scientific results into pharmaceutical agricultural industrial and societal applications. VIB is funded by the Flemish government and works in close partnership with the Flemish universities Ghent University KU Leuven University of Antwerp and Vrije Universiteit Brussel. The link between basic research and valorisation has made VIB a catalyst for the ever-growing biotech ecosystem in Flanders.
To further strengthen and expand the Flemish ecosystem and network with respect to defence-related Biotech applications and in close collaboration with the Flemish government and the BIOVIA cluster organisation VIB is recruiting a Program Manager for a 2 year fixed term appointment.
More info on the program can be found here (in Dutch): Vlaamse Innovatie- en Industriestrategie voor Veiligheid en Defensie
Job Description
We are looking for a dynamic professional to lead the translation of strategic orientation roadmaps into actionable operational plans and to build a robust triple helix ecosystem connecting industry academia and government. This role focuses on advancing cutting-edge technologies in biotechnology MedTech and biomanufacturing with (potential) applications in the defence sector.
This is a two-year fixed assignment ideal for professionals who want to make an impact in a dynamic multi-stakeholder environment. Whether you are an experienced program manager or a motivated junior with strong organizational and networking skills this role offers a unique opportunity to grow and work at the intersection of science technology security and innovation.
What you will do:
- Ecosystem Management: Drive collaboration across industry research institutes and government. Together with BIOVIA Build communities and organize roundtables & strategic events.
- Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong relationships with OEMs and system integrators. Actively engage with federal and European institutions (EDA DG DEFIS/EDF NATO DIANA) and coordinate organize bilateral consultations to strengthen partnerships.
- Project Generation: Monitor funding opportunities (DEFRA Horizon Europe EDF etc.). Lead the formation of consortia guide proposal submissions and capture lessons learned.
- Infrastructure & Facilities: Map & asses testing capabilities in Flanders. Conduct gap analyses to identify missing infrastructure and propose solutions to strengthen the ecosystem.
- Program Planning & Reporting: Develop annual action plans. Track KPIs prepare progress and ensure timely evaluations to keep the program on course.
Profile
Who you are:
Masters or PhD degree in the life sciences life sciences related engineering or related field or with equivalent experience
Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to engage stakeholders effectively
Interest in ecosystem building innovation strategy and project coordination
Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams; proactive and deadline-oriented
Fluency in Dutch and English (spoken and written); knowledge of French is an asset
Familiarity with European defence programs and other funding mechanisms is a plus
Prior experience at the interface of industry government and academia is an advantage
We offer
- A professional and stimulating work environment at the cutting edge of translational science
- A two-year role at the forefront of life sciences related defence innovation.
- Opportunity to gain experience in ecosystem development and program management.
- Flexible work arrangements
- Dynamic multi-stakeholder environment with international exposure.
- Various opportunities to broaden your expertise and develop your career
- A compensation package based on expertise and experience
How to apply
Motivated candidates should apply online.
A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:
your cover/motivation letter
your CV
2 references
HIRING MANAGER
Sofie Coelus Business Development Manager ()
Erwin Sablon Head of Business Development ( ;)
Key Skills
- Project Management Methodology
- Project / Program Management
- Program Management
- Management Experience
- Microsoft Powerpoint
- Project Management
- Microsoft Project
- Budgeting
- DoD Experience
- Leadership Experience
- Supervising Experience
- Contracts
