Business Development Manager 1 fte (40 hrs/ week)
Functieomschrijving
“Help shape the future of circular chemistry at Europe’s leading innovation campus”
About Brightlands Chemelot Campus
Brightlands Chemelot Campus is a world-leading innovation location in smart materials and sustainable manufacturing and home to a vibrant and fast-growing open community of groundbreaking companies and knowledge institutes. The campus, together with Chemelot Industrial Park, forms one of the largest research and industrial sites in Europe. Recognized as a national innovation hub, Brightlands Chemelot Campus is aspiring to become the leading technological hotspot in the field of high-quality materials and chemicals. We do this by bringing together business, (applied) research and education in one unique, open and innovative ecosystem. As such, the campus generates the added value which is necessary to address the global issues of sustainability and health.
Existing and new companies (from multinationals to startups), knowledge-based institutes, and training establishments have joined forces to form an
innovative community capable of attracting national and international students, researchers, and entrepreneurs in the fields of advanced materials (materials science) and advanced processes (chemistry, process technology). In next to no time, the campus has evolved into a site where over 3.000 knowledge workers and 1.000 students are working for more than 100 businesses and knowledge-based institutes.
The context
Brightlands Chemelot Campus is a dynamic innovation hub where professionals from startups, scale-ups, corporates, and research institutions collaborate on shaping the future of the chemical and biomedical industries. These sectors are undergoing rapid transformation driven by climate
challenges, circularity, and emerging technologies. In this fast-paced environment, collaboration and knowledge exchange are at the heart of the campus. Scale and critical mass matter, and Brightlands Chemelot Campus delivers both. The campus operates as a financially autonomous, commercially managed entity, funded through a real estate-based business model. This unique setup enables us to continuously invest in growth
and innovation. To maintain our momentum and strengthen our ecosystem, we are committed to attracting new, forward-thinking companies. This is the core mission of our Business Development team, currently consisting of seven dedicated professionals. To support this mission, we are looking for a Business Development Manager (mid – senior level). This role reports directly to the Director of Business Development.
Your role
You will play a key role in driving the growth of Brightlands Chemelot Campus by attracting new companies and creating compelling value propositions tailored to their needs. Your responsibilities include:
• Managing the full acquisition process from initial contact to a signed lease agreement;
• Identifying and targeting companies that align with the campus’s innovation focus, developing strategies to engage and attract them;
• Supporting existing companies on campus in realizing their growth ambitions;
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with relevant stakeholders on campus and within the broader regional ecosystem;
• Monitoring emerging trends and technologies relevant to the chemical and biomedical sectors;
• Understanding the needs of innovative companies and aligning them with the campus’s unique innovation proposition.
This job involves technology, marketing, and strategic sales in a dynamic, continuously evolving environment. It requires a deep understanding of the technological landscape and the ability to engage meaningfully with technical and business stakeholders. You will manage complex, longterm
sales processes that often span several years and involve cross-disciplinary collaboration within our organization.
Your Profile
At Brightlands, we value creation, collaboration, and delivering on our promises. Do you recognize yourself in these values? Then you may be the right fit for this role. We are looking for someone who meets the following criteria:
• Academic background in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science;
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in a commercial environment, preferably in sales or business development;
• Experience with real estate development or the construction of pilot/demo plants is considered a strong asset;
• A proactive, outgoing, and results-driven personality, with strong listening skills, creativity, flexibility, and a hands-on mentality;
• Demonstrated project management skills and the ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Proven ability to attract and engage customers in a highly specialized, technical context, using strategic and consultative selling skills;
• Willingness and ability to be physically present on campus in Geleen at least 3 days per week, with flexibility;
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written;
• Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time, primarily within Europe.
What we offer
Brightlands Chemelot Campus is a fast-growing and forward-thinking organization that embraces the same sense of dynamism within its team. We offer ample opportunities for personal and professional development, along with a competitive package of secondary benefits. This position is classified under salary scale 9 or 10, depending on your relevant experience and qualifications. We strongly value a healthy and active lifestyle and encourage our employees to make full use of the on-campus facilities that support well-being. With flexible working hours, you’ll have the freedom to shape a work-life balance that suits you. Most importantly, you’ll be working in an innovative and inspiring environment, surrounded by global thought leaders in the fields of chemicals and materials. Together, we contribute to the economic growth and innovation power of the Limburg region.
Join us!