Senior Innovation Programme Manager

As a strategic leader at EIT Food, you will oversee a diverse portfolio of innovation programmes, driving measurable impact across the agri-food sector. Your role demands exceptional leadership, portfolio management expertise, and the ability to forge and nurture cross-functional and external partnerships. You will use targeted digital tools - such as AI-based monitoring and analytics - to support decision-making without overshadowing the collaborative spirit that propels programme delivery. 

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

1) Strategic innovation portfolio and programme management: 

• Manage a strategic portfolio of innovation programmes aligned with EIT Food’s missions and strategic priorities.
• Develop and execute high-level programmes strategies that drive impact and financial sustainability.
• Use AI-powered analytics as a supportive tool to monitor risks, assess performance, and identify growth opportunities.

2) Partnership and ecosystem development 

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including industry partners, research institutions, and startups. 
• Foster a collaborative environment to encourage consortium-building and joint ventures. 
• Engage with programme delivery as well as partnership managers and ecosystem managers to expand EIT Food's network and influence. 

3) Intellectual property, success sharing and business model development 

• Manage the development and commercialization of IP assets resulting from innovation programs. 
• Explore, negotiate and implement success sharing mechanisms and innovative business models to enhance the commercial potential of projects. 
• Ensure the financial viability of innovation programmes, including securing co-financed opportunities and identify new revenue streams and business opportunities that advance EIT Food’s missions. 

4) Impact and financial sustainability 

• Establish robust performance metrics and KPIs, ensuring programmes deliver tangible, high-impact outcomes. 
• Oversee regular reporting and reviews, using both qualitative insights and digital dashboards to inform strategic adjustments. 
• Ensure that innovation initiatives contribute to the financial and operational goals of EIT Food. 

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Proven experience in managing complex innovation portfolios and strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and working within cross-functional teams. 
• Expertise in partnership development, with excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities as well as familiarity with using digital tools (e.g., AI-based analytics) to support strategic decision-making. 
• Deep understanding of the agri-food sector, innovation ecosystems, and sustainable business models. 

WHAT WE OFFER

Working at EIT Food means joining a team of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating a better future through food innovation. We cultivate a culture of collaboration, inventiveness, inclusivity, and constructive feedback. All employees are encouraged to contribute their ideas and expertise towards our mission of creating a more sustainable and inclusive food system.
Together, we're making a real impact on the food industry and we're looking for talented individuals like you to join us.

As a valued member of our team, we'll provide you with a competitive salary and benefits package.

CONTRACT TYPE

Full-time permanent position.

LOCATION & TRAVEL FREQUENCY

This role can be based in any of our six locations: Belgium, The Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Germany or the UK. To be eligible, you must be based in one of these locations and have the legal right to work there. Within your chosen location, we offer flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, depending on local policies and requirements