We’re hiring: Managing Director of UtrechtInc
UtrechtInc is looking for an entrepreneurial and connecting Managing Director. Are you an inspiring leader who spots opportunities and has the drive to act on them? Do you get your energy from bringing together science, government and business? And would you like to be the face of one of Europe’s leading startup hubs, helping new generations of founders succeed? Then we’d love to hear from you.
The role
As Managing Director, you lead UtrechtInc and its small, dedicated team of around five people, supported by some 60 mentors and coaches. You strengthen our programs and build a future-proof organization, with valorisation at the core: turning knowledge and ideas into viable innovations with societal and economic impact.
UtrechtInc is a joint initiative of Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht and HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht. Together with these founding partners, and with partners such as the Province of Utrecht, ROM Utrecht Region, the Municipality of Utrecht and Startup Utrecht Region, you shape a shared vision and build alliances that secure UtrechtInc’s long-term funding. You are the visible face of UtrechtInc, on the Utrecht Science Park and beyond, and you make sure our workspace stays a lively, welcoming home for founders.
Key challenges for the coming years:
- Renewing our program portfolio to match market demand, with a focus on life sciences, biotech and medtech, circular economy, mobility, climate adaptation, energy security, AI/digital and cybersecurity.
- Strengthening the pathway from early scouting to startup to scale-up.
- Increasing UtrechtInc’s visibility across the wider region, including Amersfoort (Earth Valley), Veenendaal (Food Valley) and Hilversum.
Who we’re looking for
- Academic level of thinking and working
- Extensive experience in a leadership role at an incubator, accelerator or similar innovation environment; founder experience is a plus
- A proven track record in renewing startup programs and growing an organization’s visibility
- Experience in community and workspace management, with a feel for hospitality
- A strong network in the Utrecht (or a comparable) startup ecosystem and experience with triple helix collaboration
- Knowledge of innovation subsidies and securing funding
- Entrepreneurial, visionary, politically sensitive, results-driven and a natural connector
What we offer
A one-year contract with the intention to extend, for 0.8–1.0 FTE. Excellent terms of employment (scale 14, Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities) and room to grow in an inspiring environment where science and entrepreneurship meet.
How to apply
The recruitment is handled by ADJ. Send your CV and motivation letter no later than 8 November 2026 via the ADJ website:
Apply here ###
Questions? Get in touch with:
Ellen Deckers, Advisor – ellen@adj.nl | +31 6 21867379
Jarko Knevel, Project Associate – jarko@adj.nl | +31 6 40956835