Policy Project Manager - Research & Innovation

Join our multicultural team as a Project Manager, focusing on Research, Technology, and Development (RTD). Combine your passion for policy making, strong networking skills, and the ability to balance strategic focus with hands-on tasks in a dynamic, supportive environment. Ready to make a real impact?

Our company

CEN and CENELEC, based in Brussels, are internationally recognized non-profit associations and officially designated European Standardization Organizations (alongside ETSI).

Representing 43 members and employing 95 professionals, we play a pivotal role in driving a resilient, green, and digital EU Single Market.

Click on the 1’30 video to know more; EU Strategy on Standardization. For a resilient, green and digital EU Single Market. - YouTube

Our Strategy 2030 outlines a common vision and ambition for CEN and CENELEC and aims to address the long-term, disruptive challenges we face as a community of European standardizers.

Our RTD team focuses on integrating emerging science and technology into standardization to ensure market relevance and the successful deployment of innovative products.

Our dedicated team focuses on:

1. Horizon Europe Projects: Linking EU research projects with standardization for impactful results.


2. Engaging with Research and Innovation Communities: Strengthening partnerships and valuing contributions from diverse experts.


3. Collaboration Agreements: Fostering strategic synergies.

CEN and CENELEC is looking for a project manager to support Research, Technology and Development (RTD) activities, focusing the uptake of standardization in research and innovation activities (i.e. Horizon Europe projects).

Reporting to the team leader of a team of 2 project managers.

Key areas of activity:

1. Representation and Coordination in Horizon Europe Projects
   
   
   
   • Represent CEN and CENELEC in project meetings and events.
   
   
   • Attend consortium meetings and maintain relationships with project partners.
   
   
   • Monitor project milestones, deliverables, and ensure adherence to Grant Agreements.
   
   
   • Prepare and submit progress and financial reports on time.
   
   
   • Support administrative and financial aspects of the projects.
   
   
   
   


2. Stakeholder Engagement and Community Building
   
   
   
   • Organize stakeholder workshops to define standardization roadmaps.
   
   
   • Build and maintain relationships with policy makers, standardizers, industry, and researchers.
   
   
   • Develop outreach and communication strategies for relevant organizations.
   
   
   • Deliver training webinars on research and innovation project opportunities.
   
   
   
   


3. Promotion of the European Standardization Model
   
   
   
   • Advocate for the European standardization model in networking and matchmaking events.
   
   
   • Engage with the European Commission to promote standardization in funding programs.
   
   
   • Conduct capacity-building workshops to enhance awareness of the European Standardization System.
   
   
   
   

What will your work life look like with your team and your manager?

• You will report directly to the Team Leader RTD Collaboration, who has recently been promoted. Claire is an excellent mentor who will support you throughout your professional journey and will undoubtedly value your independence and resourcefulness.


• You will be part of a team of 2 other collaborative project managers


• The entire team is for the time being devoted to Horizon Europe Projects funds – your role will be to balance that workload with a focus on policy and stakeholder engagement with the European innovation actors.


• They value working together in a multicultural group within a vibrant environment, supporting one another when needed, which fosters a positive mindset for everyone. They enjoy spending time together, embracing the multicultural aspect of their bond, and often arrange informal outings, visits, or even trips.

• Between 2 and 4 years of experience in European policy or public affairs, with a proven track record in lobbying and stakeholder engagement, and comfort working in the European "Brussels bubble" environment.


• Experience working with trade associations and multi-stakeholder groups, including NGOs.


• Strong understanding of project management, with a willingness to learn about the European funded projects landscape (e.g. Horizon Europe).


• Familiarity with EU-funded projects (e.g. Horizon Europe, LIFE) is a significant advantage.


• Fluency in English (written and spoken); proficiency in another EU language is a plus.


• Enthusiastic about communication, networking, and building connections.


• A proactive problem-solver and risk-taker who thrives on challenges.


• Comfortable balancing independent work with team collaboration.


• Capable of working under tight deadlines with a structured and organized approach.


• Strong prioritization and multitasking skills, with the flexibility to handle multiple requests simultaneously.


• A hands-on attitude and eagerness to contribute ideas to help the team grow.