Chief Executive Officer

About this Opportunity

TNO, a renowned research institution, is establishing a spin-off company called SunSmart. This venture aims to revolutionize building environments with intelligent coating technology that optimizes energy efficiency and comfort without compromising on visibility. We are seeking an exceptional CEO to lead this innovative company and drive its growth and success in the market.

Your Role

As the CEO of SunSmart, you will be responsible for developing and executing a strategic vision and business plan that focuses on market penetration and growth. You will identify and capitalize on market opportunities, ensuring that the product meets the needs of both utility and residential building environments.

In close cooperation with the TNO Tech Transfer team, research team, and business development team at Brightlands Materials Center, you will create a high-value proposal for the spin-off and actively participate in its development and launch.

You will work closely with technical teams, investors, glass processors, and other stakeholders to align interests and drive collaboration. Building a motivated, high-performing team will be essential to achieving business objectives. Additionally, you will oversee financial management, including budgeting, cash flow, and P&L responsibilities. Securing funding for product development and market expansion, particularly through Venture Capital and other financing mechanisms, will also be a key aspect of your role.

What We Expect from You

• Minimum of ten years of relevant work experience, including roles as an entrepreneur or in senior leadership positions within technology-driven companies;
• Deep knowledge of the building technology and coating industry, supported by a relevant academic background and/or extensive practical experience an extensive network in the building industry is a plus;
• Highly developed leadership, customer orientation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and motivate a cohesive team;
• Strong financial insight with experience in creating business plans, including financing plans (budget, cash flow, P&L);
• Demonstrated entrepreneurial mindset, preferably with experience in starting up businesses;
• Strategic mindset to spot opportunities and solve challenges;
• Proven track record in securing financing for product development;
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required. Proficiency in Dutch is an advantage.

What You Can Expect from Us

• Collaborate with TNO and leverage its extensive research capabilities and networks;
• Support from the TNO Tech Transfer team in securing your first round of financing;
• Equity options as part of the compensation package;

What You'll Get in Return

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 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € ). 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 on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible benefits package that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work part-time (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.

We offer a one-year contract that includes the TNO benefits package. After one year, you will be offered a direct contract with the SunSmart spin-off, along with employment terms that will be finalized at that time.