Senior Automotive Business Development Manager

Business Development
- Leuven | Just now
- As a Senior Automotive Business Development Manager, you will drive and expand R&D collaboration opportunities in the automotive domain.
- Imec is leading automotive semiconductor innovation through modular chiplet architecture, ecosystem orchestration, advanced packaging expertise, and European infrastructure, all supporting the next wave of intelligent, software-defined vehicles. To support our ambitious strategy, we are looking for a Senior Automotive Business Development Manager to drive and expand R&D collaboration opportunities in the automotive domain.

Key Responsibilities
- You will drive strategic partnerships and R&D collaborations with leading companies in the semiconductor and automotive ecosystems.
- Your mission is to identify opportunities, build relationships, and create business models that accelerate innovation in advanced semiconductor scaling, system technology, building on current existing imec automotive chiplet and sensing programs but also keeping eyes and ears open for future development of the imec automotive product portfolio.
- You interface with the Sector management, and you will lead the Automotive Business cross-functional team after a defined transition period
- Develop and grow partnerships with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, semiconductor IDMs, foundries, and system players.
- Shape collaboration models in alignment with imec’s technical teams, IP, and legal experts.
- Lead negotiations and close agreements for R&D programs and joint development projects.
- Represent imec externally at industry events, trade shows, and conferences.
- Monitor customer satisfaction and ensure successful delivery of collaborative projects.
- Collaborate internally: Work closely with technical teams to align business objectives with technology offerings.
- Represent imec externally: Act as an ambassador at trade shows, conferences, and industry events. What we do for you

We offer
you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will define the society of tomorrow. We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. Who you are We are looking for a highly motivated professional with:
- Team player attitude We are a small and nimble team that is highly competitive and eager to make a difference in Automotive.
- A Master’s degree (preferably in electronics or physics) and strong automotive business acumen.
- Interest or experience in semiconductor and system technologies
- Proven experience in sales or business development in markets leveraging semiconductor technologies. Experience in automotive R&D collaboration is a plus.
- Understanding of business models and IP licensing.
- Ability to engage with technical leadership and negotiate business terms.
- Strong communication skills, customer orientation, and diplomacy.
- Ability to build networks and discuss technical, legal, and business topics confidently.
- Strategic thinking and flexibility in prioritizing opportunities.
- A collaborative mindset, working closely with technical, legal, and partnership teams.
- Willingness to travel (~40%).
- Fluency in English; other European languages are an asset.