We are optimists!

We believe in the problem-solving power of designers and provide them with opportunities, support, publicity and a platform. By showcasing how designers around the world are shaping a positive future, we strengthen their position and impact far beyond the Netherlands.

We do this through organizing Dutch Design Week, Dutch Design Awards, Coalitions, and PONT. Dutch Design Foundation is a non-profit organization with a director and a Supervisory Board.

Lab manager | Energy transition

Location: Hybrid – on-site at DDF, at the client’s location, and from home
Hours: Variable (on average 1–2 days per week per Lab)
Type of contract: Freelance / Project-based

Who are we looking for?

We are currently seeking a Lab Manager to contribute to a Co/Lab focused on the energy transition. A connector who moves seamlessly between the design field and the challenge owner; a true bridge-builder who thrives on working with societal challenges. You are a process facilitator who enables collaboration, safeguards structure, and creates space for creativity—so that new perspectives and solutions for the energy transition can emerge.

Beyond this role, we are continuously looking for Lab Managers for future challenges in areas such as healthcare, living environment, water, and other societal themes. To that end, we are building a pool of professionals we would love to get to know better.

 

About us

Dutch Design Foundation (DDF) believes that designers are essential in making the world more beautiful, sustainable, and socially inclusive. We are optimists, but we also recognize the urgency and seriousness of today’s challenges. We believe in the forward-thinking and hands-on power of designers, and we create space for that within our programs: Coalitions, Dutch Design Awards, Dutch Design Week, and PONT.

 

Your tasks and responsibilities

As a Lab Manager, you will guide a Co/Lab in which designers and organizations collaborate on innovative solutions for the energy transition. You ensure a clear process, monitor progress and quality, and act as the primary point of contact for all stakeholders.

 

Key tasks:

  • Conduct intake sessions and define shared goals.

  • Recruit, select, and coach designers.

  • Safeguard the process: progress, budget, meetings, and communication.

  • Translate and connect the cultures and languages of organizations and designers.

  • Facilitate reflection moments and present results (e.g., during DDW).

  • Advise on next steps and ensure sustainable embedding of results.

 

Who are you?

  • You have at least 5 years of experience at the intersection of design and innovation, with knowledge of working in or with large organizations.

  • You have experience with creative processes and interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • You are familiar with the design process and a variety of design disciplines.

  • You have affinity with the energy transition and societal challenges.

  • You are communicative, empathetic, strategic, and organizationally sensitive.

  • You are curious, independent, solution-oriented, and skilled at switching between the abstract and the practical.

 

What DDF offers

A challenging position within a non-profit organization committed to strengthening the role of design in creating a better and more beautiful world. In addition, we offer:

  • A role with societal impact in an inspiring network.

  • Collaboration with leading designers and forward-thinking organizations.

  • A carefully structured process to work with directly, with room for your own style.

  • Projects that gain visibility during Dutch Design Week.

  • Appropriate compensation based on experience and market standards.

 

Diversity & Inclusion

DDF adheres to the Governance Code Cultural, the Fair Practice Code, and the Code Diversity & Inclusion. We are committed to being an inclusive organization where equality is central to collaboration. That is why raising awareness and further developing ourselves in the areas of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equality is a key focus within DDF.

Interested?

Great! We warmly invite you to share your experience and motivation by Wednesday, September 17 in the way that suits you best. Send it to applications@dutchdesignfoundation.com. You can also reach out via LinkedIn or simply give us a call at +31 (0)40 296 11 50.

Introductory interviews will take place online on Tuesday, September 23 (10:00–12:00) or Thursday, September 25 (14:00–17:00). Please take this into account in your planning.

Questions?

Interested in this vacancy but have some questions first? Don’t hesitate to get in touch—call us at +31 (0)40 296 11 50 or email us at applications@dutchdesignfoundation.com. You are also welcome to visit us at Torenallee 22-08, 5617 BD, Eindhoven.