ABOUT EIT FOOD

EIT Food is Europe’s leading food innovation initiative, working to make the food system more sustainable, healthy and trusted by consumers. Established by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) in 2017, EIT Food is a fast-growing partnership organisation focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation in the food sector.

EIT Food is a member organisation bringing together key industry players, agri-food startups, research centres and universities from across Europe representing the food value chain in Europe. In addition to thematic leadership, EIT Food is also responsible for coordinating a multi-million euro EU grant allocation from the EIT and distributing it among its partners and stakeholders for the implementation of projects.

EIT Food headquarters (HQ) are based in Leuven (Belgium) and it has 5 regional offices (Co-Location Centres or CLCs) in Europe (based in Poland, Spain, Germany, the UK and Belgium), each working with and for partners in several EIT Food partner countries.

Visit our website: https://www.eitfood.eu

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Key Account Manager’s primary responsibility is to develop and maintain strong relationships with partners of EIT Food. The focus is on enabling our partners’ strategic objectives, and developing the overall partnership so that it can support the strategic objectives of EIT Food. You will be expected to have a strong impact mindset, and the ability to drive measurable outcomes that align with the goals of the partnership. Key Account Managers will also identify and source new partners in line with EIT Food’s Partnership Growth Strategy.

Position within the organisational structure: Reporting primarily to the Regional Director and to the Head of Community within a matrix organisation. You will work with other Key Account Managers in your specific region and across regions as a team.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

Your key duties and responsibilities will include:

• Building and managing relationships: Develop and maintain strong relationships with key partners, by understanding their needs and providing support in achieving their objectives.


• Developing strategic plans: Use your knowledge of the industry, market trends, and partner needs to develop partner-specific strategic plans that align with the goals of the partnership.


• Aligning with EIT Food: Collaborate closely with other teams within EIT Food to facilitate programmes of activity and ensure that the partnership is aligned with the organization's overall strategic objectives.


• Communicating with partners: Act as the primary point of contact for partners, and ensure that communication is regular, clear, and effective.


• Facilitating partner engagement: Encourage and support partners to participate in events, workshops, and other engagement activities, with the goal of enhancing the partnership and increasing impact.


• Monitoring and reporting: Track the progress of the partnership against its objectives, and prepare regular reports for senior management and other stakeholders.

Overall, this is a challenging and rewarding role that requires a mix of customer skills, strategic thinking, and an impact mindset. If you are passionate about building relationships and driving impact, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, e.g. business administration, science, finance or equivalent by experience;


• At least 3 year’s experience in a similar account management role;


• Experience of working in the food industry and an understanding of the needs of either industry or the research base;


• Strong team player; willingness and openness to work with the other KAM’s to improve the process together and share the individual knowledge to come to a strong team performance;


• Strong customer skills: Ability to build and maintain relationships with key partners, and to understand and respond to their needs;


• Strategic thinking: Ability to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the goals of the partnership and EIT Food;


• Impact mindset: Strong focus on driving measurable outcomes that contribute to the success of the partnership;


• Collaborative approach: Ability to work closely with teams across EIT Food, as well as with external partners;


• Strong communication skills: Ability to communicate effectively with partners, stakeholders, and senior management, using a range of channels and formats;


• Analytical skills: Ability to use data and insights to inform decision-making and track progress against objectives;


• Proficiency in all Microsoft Office applications as well as CRM software.

WHAT WE OFFER

Working at EIT Food means joining a team of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating a better future through food innovation. We cultivate a culture of collaboration, inventiveness, inclusivity, and constructive feedback. All employees are encouraged to contribute their ideas and expertise towards our mission of creating a more sustainable and inclusive food system. Together, we're making a real impact on the food industry and we're looking for talented individuals like you to join us.

As a valued member of our team, we'll provide you with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

CONTRACT TYPE

• Full-time temporary 1 year contract position (Paternity leave replacement). Also open to freelancers.

LOCATION & TRAVEL FREQUENCY

EIT Food HQ, Leuven (Belgium), Netherlands (remote), Germany (Freisling office) or UK (remote) with the possibility to work remotely.

Frequent travel within Europe.

Please note that all applicants must be legally authorized to reside and work in the EU.

APPLICATION

Interested candidates are asked to upload their CV and Cover Letter in English in electronic format to CV Warehouse before 13.10.2024.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview and may be asked to prove their background, qualifications, skills and experiences by providing relevant documents.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES:

EIT Food is an equal opportunity employer, offering each candidate matching the minimum obligatory qualifications and experiences an equal chance in employment and promotion procedures.