Business Development Manager Automotive, TNO Japan | Yokohama

About this position

Our growing mobility demands are limited by societal challenges and ecological boundaries. At TNO we develop technology and assessment methodologies to accelerate the deployment of Connected and Cooperative Automated Mobility (CCAM) systems that contribute to ‘zero calamities, ‘’zero emissions’’ and ‘’zero loss’’. We support industries and policymakers in the innovation process of smart vehicles and complex CCAM systems that help to improve our mobility and logistics, making a significant difference in the world. Are you passionate about contributing to societal well-being through safe & efficient mobility solutions? At TNO we offer you the chance to play a key role in this vision. If you’re ready to make a difference and propel your career forward in an exciting and meaningful direction, we invite you to explore this unique opportunity with us. Together, we can drive towards a future of sustainable and safe mobility for all.

What will be your role?

In this role, you will be responsible for a significant part of our business portfolio and order intake in Japan, with contract research projects and joint R&D programs that contribute structurally to our Safe & Efficient Mobility roadmap. You will bear responsibility for strategic business and partnership development and oversee a variety of key accounts in the private, public and academic sectors. You will (co-)develop innovative propositions and position them with strategic stakeholders, accelerating our roadmap for smart vehicles. In day-to-day operations, you will team up with research, program and project managers, and experts from relevant research departments in the Netherlands, such as consultants and scientists in the fields of connected, cooperative and automated vehicles, safety assessment and monitoring.

In addition to the above, as TNO is active in various Smart & Sustainable Mobility topics, you are expected to support business development activities in other, related areas such as; Digital Infrastructure, V2X communication, Digital Twins, Traffic Management & Optimization, Electric Vehicles, Mobility as a Service, etc. You will also be the liaison between Japanese clients and legal counselors at TNO headquarters to support contract negotiations. You work in a team of dedicated business developers and will report directly to the Regional Director Asia Pacific.

What we expect from you

You thrive on bridging commercial strategy with cutting-edge automotive technology, particularly in connected and automated driving. You have a solid track record in the Automotive industry and an in-depth understanding of the Japanese business culture, allowing you to navigate and advise on market challenges effectively. With your technical and commercial expertise, you translate complex mobility innovations into strategic partnerships, connecting with stakeholders both in Japan and internationally.

Other knowledge and skills you bring :

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant technical or commercial field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in a commercial role, with a proven track record in the Automotive industry.
• Strong communication skills; fluent in Japanese and English language and ability to speak and / or present in public events.
• Experienced in establishing strategic partnerships and complex collaboration models with multiple stakeholders.
• Affinity with development and assessment of connected and automated driving technologies, including but not limited to; driver-vehicle interaction and driver monitoring, sensor fusion for world modeling and localization, motion planning, decision making, vehicle control, connectivity and active safety systems.
• Preferably, Knowledge of safety standards (e.g., ISO ) and development challenges in automated testing and validation.
• Familiar with current business challenges in using and implementing emerging technologies and ability to go explore on broader topics in the mobility domain, such as AI, V2X, Cyber Security, Digital Twins etc.
• Proven and highly developed ability to operate both independently as within a team.
• Willingness to travel within and outside of Japan (on average twice a year to the Netherlands).

What you'll get in return

Please note that employment terms and benefits for this position will align with Japanese standards, reflecting local laws and regulations, which may differ from the TNO Netherlands standards.