The security of the Netherlands is under increasing pressure due to geopolitical tensions, hybrid threats, cyberattacks, organized crime that undermines society, and social disruption. These developments call for closer collaboration between organizations operating in the national security domain and the armed forces. Innovation, data, and artificial intelligence are playing an increasingly important role in this context.
As an independent research and technology organization, TNO plays a key connecting role within this ecosystem. Leveraging our expertise in autonomous systems, data-driven decision-making, and AI, we develop solutions that contribute to a safe, resilient, and future-proof Netherlands. In doing so, we work closely with organizations such as the National Police, the Ministry of Justice and Security, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), safety regions, the Ministry of Defence, knowledge institutions, and industry partners.
As a Business Developer Autonomous Systems & Decision Support (AS&DS) based in The Hague and Soesterberg, you will actively contribute to this mission. Operating at the intersection of national security and defence, with a particular focus on the intelligence domain, you will identify opportunities for collaboration and help accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies in real-world operations. You understand the challenges faced by both the security sector and the armed forces and know how to connect these worlds effectively. In doing so, you will contribute to innovative solutions for professionals who work every day to safeguard the Netherlands, from police officers, intelligence analysts, and emergency responders to military personnel and policymakers.
Independently and together with your TNO colleagues, you will develop new research and innovation programmes within the national security and defence domain. A key aspect of your role is strengthening collaboration between the national security sector and the Ministry of Defence, particularly in the field of intelligence. Many societal and security challenges now extend beyond the traditional boundaries of civilian and military organisations. You identify shared challenges, bring stakeholders together, and develop initiatives that enable the exchange of knowledge, technology, and experience.
You take initiative, recognize new opportunities, and guide ideas from concept to project execution. To achieve this, you work closely with researchers, clients, policymakers, industry partners, and other research institutions, both nationally and internationally. You build long-term relationships and establish a strong network within the security and defence ecosystem.
In addition, you stay abreast of relevant developments in AI, autonomous systems, data-driven operations, and decision support. By attending conferences, symposiums, and networking events, you remain informed about current challenges and position TNO as a valuable and trusted innovation partner within the security domain.
What makes this role unique
You are not merely a business developer for a single domain; you are the connecting force between national security and defence. You develop new partnerships, orchestrate joint innovation agendas, and ensure that knowledge and technology find their way to organisations that contribute to the safety and security of the Netherlands every day. In doing so, you have a direct impact on the future of both the national security chain and the armed forces.
The Business Development team within TNO Defence, Safety & Security is diverse in terms of background and experience, yet united by a strong passion for Defence and Security. What characterises the team is its professionalism, enthusiasm for our field, and a healthy sense of humour. Due to the rapidly growing demand for innovative solutions to defence and security challenges, we are looking for several talented professionals to strengthen this market team.
You combine your substantive expertise with an entrepreneurial, sociable, and enthusiastic mindset, and you are able to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Building connections comes naturally to you and is something you genuinely enjoy. You are a natural connector who thrives on being the central link between people, ideas, and opportunities. In addition, you can effortlessly switch between different communication styles, navigate both national and international (political) contexts, and enjoy working flexibly across a variety of topics within this domain. You work accurately and methodically, providing structure throughout business development and acquisition processes. You are analytical, accountable, curious, and motivated by understanding and solving complex challenges.
What else do you bring?
- Master’s level working and thinking ability, supported by at least a completed bachelor's degree (HBO).
- A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience.
- Demonstrable experience in, or strong affinity with, the defence and security domain or related industries.
- An affinity for innovation and technology.
- Excellent communication skills in both Dutch and English, verbally and in writing (minimum C1 level).
Are you excited by what you have read so far and ready to make a meaningful impact in these challenging times? In your motivation letter, we would like to see a clear reflection of your affinity with the defence and security domain, as well as your enthusiasm for this position.
Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 4.800,- and € 6.500,- (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.
TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:
- An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
- The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
- 33 days annual leave plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
- An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics.
- We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel or a lease car.
- Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
- Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
- A good pension scheme.
Read more about tailoring your benefits package.
Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.
Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.
At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.
Please apply before the 20th of September, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 1st of October, 2026. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.
The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.
A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.
As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.
