aerospace innovation · programme leadership · freelance opportunity

As an experienced Innovation Manager, you will lead the Dutch Tech Hub of a major European aerospace organisation. Based in South- Holland, you will shape and expand research and technology programmes in the aerospace sector, connecting international innovation needs with the Dutch ecosystem. This freelance role offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of aerospace technology while managing strategic relationships and multidisciplinary teams.

Your responsibilities
You will be the operational leader of the Tech Hub in the Netherlands, representing the organisation in innovation and R&T activities, managing stakeholder engagement, and guiding a team of eight specialists.
Your tasks include:

• Developing and executing the Tech Hub strategy within the Dutch aerospace innovation ecosystem

• Acting as the primary representative of R&T programmes in the Netherlands

• Managing partnerships with government, research institutes, and industry stakeholders

• Identifying and developing new cooperation programmes and funding opportunities

• Overseeing the portfolio of R&T projects, ensuring alignment with global objectives

• Leading and coaching the Tech Hub team across multiple technology domains

• Coordinating communications and public affairs activities to grow the hub’s visibility

• Reporting on progress and performance to the global Tech Hub organisation

Company profile
This organisation is one of Europe’s largest aerospace and space companies, delivering products, services, and solutions across commercial aircraft, helicopters, defence, and space. The Dutch operations employ over 250 people across multiple sites, specialising in hardware for the space industry such as satellite solar arrays and launcher structures. The Dutch Tech Hub connects local innovation capabilities with global R&T needs in areas including Future Energy Technologies, Cabin of the Future, Aircraft Operations, Composites and Industrialised Systems, Connectivity, Quantum, and MRO.

Your profile

• Proven academic background (Aerospace engineering is a plus)

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in innovation management

• Track record in the Dutch aerospace sector or related industries

• Strong networker with excellent stakeholder management skills

• Skilled in leading multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment

• Fluent in English (spoken and written) and conversant in Dutch

• Available 32–40 hours per week, starting preferably mid-September 2025

• Based in or willing to relocate to the Netherlands

Pre: experience in setting up cross-border R&T programmes and securing funding schemes.
If you do not meet every requirement but have the vision and drive to lead aerospace innovation, we would still like to hear from you.

Offer

• Freelance/ZZP contract until 31 May 2026, with possible extension

• Hybrid working arrangement, based in the Leiden area

• Opportunity to lead high-impact aerospace innovation programmes

• Access to a strong international network in R&T and industry partnerships

• Flexible and collaborative working environment

Interested?
For more information or to apply, contact Daniël Hoenselaar at +31 6 441 244 68 or email daniel.hoenselaar@mcflybrown.com