SERN is hiring: Project Manager and Business Developer

Join us to help drive innovation across Europe’s regions through EU projects

Startup Europe Regions Network is looking for a dynamic Project Manager and Business Developer (m/f/d) to join our Brussels office.

At SERN, we are committed to connecting regional startup ecosystems, promoting innovation policy, and supporting the implementation of EU-funded initiatives. As our network grows, so does our impact. We’re looking for a passionate individual to help us strengthen and communicate that impact across Europe.

Responsibilities and scope of activities

To succeed in this position, as Project Manager and Business Developer at SERN, you will:

Build new partnerships, engage new members and grow the association outreach. Additionally, you will research trends, partners, and potential areas of interest for the association and its members, identify and approach potential stakeholders to develop new business relationships and generate leads through networking;
Monitor and analyse calls and assess opportunities;
Systematically track and analyze funding opportunities across EU programmes (Horizon Europe, EIC, European Partnerships, Interreg, Creative Europe, Digital Europe, etc.);
Monitor the EU Funding & Tenders Portal and programme-specific platforms for call announcements, work programmes, and updates;
Analyze call topics, eligibility criteria, budget allocations, and evaluation requirements to assess strategic fit;
Manage and implement European funded projects dealing with thematic such as inter-regional cooperation (Interreg), entrepreneurship and climate change. Amont the other tasks, it will be required to execute desk research, edit newsletters, organize events and training;
Design, plan, prepare and submit proposals under specific European funded projects;

Who You Are

We are looking for someone with:

University degree.
Minimum 4 years’ experience as Project Manager Experience in EU innovation, research, entrepreneurship, regional innovation ecosystems, climate and environment;
Previous experience in proposals writing and/or implementing European funded projects;
Strategic thinking, ability to draft reports and prepare grant application.
Capability of working in multicultural environments and excellent communication skills;
Strong self-motivation and capacity to work in team;
International work experience will be a plus;
Multitask performance and capacity to work well under time constraints.
Working hours flexibility;
Excellent use of English and fluency in French, both written and spoken. Portuguese is an asset;
Availability to travel abroad;
Good use of Office tools – Word, Excel, Adobe, Canva and AI tools.

Why Join SERN?

Be part of a mission-driven, European-wide network shaping the innovation landscape
Work in an international, collaborative environment at the intersection of policy, regional development, and entrepreneurship
Enjoy a flexible hybrid setup, combining remote work with time at our Brussels office
Grow professionally in a role with high visibility and impact

Contract information

Contract type: 1 year, with the possibility for renewal and conversion to a permanent contract.

Place of work: Brussels.

Start date: January-February 2026.

Apply Now

SERN offers a work environment defined by teamwork, flat hierarchies, and open communication. If this seems the right opportunity for you, please send us your application and we will reach out in case your profile meets the requirements. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Consider applying early.

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