Biotope by VIB is an incubator programme and early-stage investor supporting biotech teams in transforming next-generation, sustainable innovations into successful startups. As part of VIB, Belgium’s leading life sciences research institute, Biotope focuses on early-stage biotech solutions in agriculture, food, and materials, helping startups reach seed stage within 18 months. The programme provides hands-on support, pre-seed funding, and access to a strong network to accelerate startup growth.
To strengthen our mission, we are looking for a full-time Stakeholder Manager to expand and nurture the Biotope ecosystem, helping to build a game-changing international network.
Your Role
As a Stakeholder Manager, you will play a key role in growing Biotope’s international network and ensuring valuable connections for our portfolio startups. You will be responsible for identifying, engaging, and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders—including potential partners, mentors, startups, and government entities. Your role will bridge Biotope with its ecosystem, aligning expectations, fostering collaboration, and maximising impact.
Key Responsibilities
Stakeholder Identification and Analysis
- Identify potential new key stakeholders, including national and international potential partners, mentors, government entities and startups
- Conduct stakeholder mapping and analysis to understand their interests, added value, influence, and expectations
Engagement and Communication
- Develop and implement stakeholder engagement strategies and plans
- Facilitate effective communication channels to provide updates, gather feedback, and address concerns
- Manage the network expansion of a virtual community platform
- Prepare presentations, reports, and other communication materials tailored to different stakeholders
- Ensure diversity and impact throughout all communications developed
- Represent biotope at (international) events and conferences
Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure long-term collaboration and support
- Act as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, addressing inquiries and resolving conflicts
- Ensure stakeholder needs and concerns are understood and taken into account
Collaboration and Coordination
- Work closely with the biotope team and portfolio startups to align organizational objectives with stakeholder expectations
- Facilitate virtual and in-person stakeholder meetings, workshops, and events to foster collaboration
Your Profile
You are an independent, proactive team player who excels at networking and communication. You have a keen interest in business and startup creation and are eager to contribute to a growing initiative in the biotech sector.
We are looking for someone with:
- A master’s degree in life sciences, business economics, or equivalent experience.
- At least two years’ experience in stakeholder management, partnership development, or a related role.
- Strong communication and networking skills.
- A structured and efficient approach to work.
- A high level of interest in business development and startup ecosystems.
- Fluent written and spoken English.
- Preferably, an international network in agrifood, biomaterials, innovation, or entrepreneurship.
What Biotope Offer
Joining Biotope means becoming part of an ambitious and dynamic initiative aiming to shape the future of biotech innovation. You will have the opportunity to:
- Work with inspiring and driven people.
- Take on significant responsibility from the start.
- Help shape Biotope’s development and growth.
- Expand your international and entrepreneurial network.
- Develop your expertise and career.
- Receive a competitive compensation package based on your experience.
