Managing Director
About Techleap
Start-ups and scale-ups create tomorrow’s jobs and drive progress in vital areas such as energy transition, cyber security, and health care. The Netherlands is a European innovation hotspot and Techleap is an Amsterdam-based non-profit organization determined to keep it that way. Their catalyst towards entrepreneurship began in 2019. Along with public and private stakeholders, they’ve built a well-connected, inclusive, and self-empowered Dutch tech ecosystem that boosts growth in investments, talent, and jobs.
Techleap supports founders and tech ventures by solving their most significant challenges: hiring talent, raising capital, and expanding internationally. A primary activity is to establish a curated community called BOLD. It’s where more than four hundred founders and CxOs connect, openly share challenges, and find solutions together. Another main activity is to help the government design tech-friendly policies, such as the taxation of equity remuneration. Additionally, Techleap runs programs, hosts events, provides access to resources and international networks, and shares expertise.
“The Dutch tech start-up ecosystem has come a long way, but acceleration is needed to become one of the global frontrunners. To achieve that, we will double down on our deep tech programs, data capabilities, collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, and communities.” – Constantijn van Oranje, Special Envoy for Techleap
Since its launch, Techleap has been a publicly funded organization. But recently, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy has extended Techleap’s mandate at half the budget and a request to raise additional public and private funding. In response, the team has launched a campaign to bring together the people and capital to continue its invaluable work. This has prompted Techleap to rethink its setup.
The team has created a transformation plan. They are preparing to spin off certain activities, increase their focus on deep tech, and strengthen commercial and entrepreneurial capabilities to maximize their contributions to the Dutch start-up and scale-up ecosystem.
Requirements*
- Over 12 years of work experience
- Background in the innovation and start-up / scale-up sector
- 5+ years of managerial experience
- Operational focus
- Change management
- Inclusive leadership, building a strong company culture
Research shows that while male candidates feel confident enough to apply when they meet about 60% of the requirements, female candidates only apply when they tick every box. So if this role has your name on it, but you’re not sure about the criteria, we still want to hear from you.
The Managing Director will help us reinvent ourselves and take our organization to the next level, especially operationally. From a shared passion for the Dutch tech venture scene, we will accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship
Managing Director
The new Managing Director will lead the organization and guide Techleap through their transformation. They will take on day-to-day management and establish a structure that enables their colleagues, including the Director of Communities and Programs, and the Director of Ecosystem Change and Data, to flourish. The Managing Director will oversee all activities, directly manage the Operations functions (IT, Finance, and HR), and work closely with the Supervisory Board and Special Envoy Constantijn van Oranje.
Change management will be a significant part of this role. Leading Techleap’s restructuring will require an inclusive leadership style and an approach that fits its complex public and private stakeholder context. It will be up to the Managing Director to reshape the culture and introduce a way of working that revolves around solid execution, commercial capabilities, and measurable results. They will put in place sufficient controls while empowering the teams to take initiative, learn, and iterate.
The position of Managing Director has a strong internal and operational focus. By ensuring the transition runs smoothly, they will empower others to step into the limelight. And with his background, social status, and strategic vision, Constantijn van Oranje has been a positive public ambassador for Techleap. The Managing Director will continue to help facilitate his role as Special Envoy, and together, they will chart the direction of Techleap.
This role has earned their stripes in the innovation and start-up space and is excited to devote a couple of years to giving back and helping their fellow entrepreneurs. In return, the Managing Director will build a tremendous international network, which opens up opportunities for interesting next steps.
More information?
Curious if this role is right for you? View the full job profile for more details about the responsibilities, the team, and what we're looking for in a candidate.
This position has been filled
We have successfully filled this vacancy. Are you interested in similar positions or want to learn more about our executive search services? Feel free to contact us. We'd be happy to help you think about your next career move or filling a key position within your organization.
Do you have questions about this vacancy or would you like more information about the application process? We'll personally guide you through the entire process.
