Subject Matter Expert Network Manager

About EIT RawMaterials

With a vision geared towards a greener future, EIT RawMaterials addresses the increasing demand for minerals and metals crucial to Europe’s supply chain over the next 30 years. As an innovation community within the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, it partners with more than 300 organizations from industry, academia, and research sectors, collaborating to develop sustainable and innovative raw materials solutions.

Role Overview

The Subject Matter Expert Network Manager will establish and lead a network of technical professionals supporting the training initiatives of the European Raw Materials Academy and the European Advanced Materials Academy. This role requires both a broad technical knowledge across raw and advanced materials value chains and strong operational execution skills to manage expert recruitment, onboarding, and collaboration within EU procurement frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain a diverse network of experts covering all stages from exploration to recycling and regulation in raw and advanced materials.
• Design expert sourcing strategies guided by yearly industry needs analyses to address workforce skill gaps.
• Engage experts through industry and academic networks, as well as via targeted outreach, aiming to onboard 30-50 experts in the first year with plans for expansion.
• Implement structured screening and evaluation processes to ensure expert suitability, technical depth, and communication capabilities.
• Maintain comprehensive, audit-ready documentation for all recruitment and contracting procedures to ensure compliance with EU procurement and Horizon Europe standards.
• Manage contracting processes in collaboration with legal and compliance teams, while continuously refining operational workflows.
• Coordinate with instructional designers by passing on expertise insights and ensuring the technical accuracy of training content.
• Lead contribution to annual industry needs analyses, integrating expert feedback and market trends to refine training portfolios and expert network coverage.

Required Qualifications

• PhD or advanced degree in materials science, metallurgy, mining, geosciences, chemistry, chemical/process engineering, or similar field, or extensive equivalent experience.
• Comprehensive understanding of raw materials and advanced materials sector value chains.
• At least five years of relevant experience in expert network management, recruitment, training, or similar roles.
• Proven track record in selecting and engaging freelance experts or consultants at scale.
• Experience designing automated digital workflows for process efficiency.
• Competency in conducting structured interviews assessing technical expertise.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Exceptional attention to detail in documentation and record-keeping ensuring audit readiness.
• Proficient with applicant tracking systems or CRM, expert databases, spreadsheets, and collaborative software.
• Experience in multicultural, international work environments.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); additional European languages are advantageous.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of EU procurement legislation and Horizon Europe engagement rules.
• Familiarity with EU-funded projects such as Horizon Europe, EIT KICs, or Erasmus+.
• Background or experience working closely with instructional designers or in education development.
• Experience in workforce skills gap analysis or needs assessments.
• Ability to direct and coordinate administrative resources effectively.
• Established professional network within European raw or advanced materials sectors.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to influence Europe’s raw and advanced materials education and skills agenda.
• Responsibility for creating a strong European expert network from inception.
• Collaboration with top-tier companies, academic institutions, and research groups across Europe.
• An international, dynamic, and purpose-driven workplace environment.

Additional Position Information

• Primary work location is Berlin, Germany; alternative locations possible in Germany, Poland, Italy, Slovenia, Latvia, Greece, Hungary, Austria, or the Netherlands.
• Full-time fixed-term contract for two years with potential extension.
• Some travel within Europe will be required.
• The role operates as an individual contributor with dedicated administrative support.
• EIT RawMaterials values diversity and inclusivity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.
• The position remains open until filled.
• Application process includes CV screening, a 30-minute initial interview, a 60-minute second interview with a presentation, and then an offer upon successful selection.