Ecosystem Director

Digital Defence Ecosystem

The Digital Defence Ecosystem (DDE) is entering an important new phase of growth and development. The ecosystem brings together around 70 Finnish defence and technology companies and research organisations to accelerate innovation, develop new capabilities and create international business opportunities.

DDE is coordinated by XD Solutions Oy, a company operating at the intersection of defence, innovation and business. As the ecosystem continues to grow, we are now looking for an Ecosystem Director to take a key role in building its next phase.

As Ecosystem Director, you will lead and further develop the Digital Defence Ecosystem and build an increasingly commercially sustainable operating model around it. You will work closely with member companies, the Finnish Defence Forces, Business Finland, international partners and other key stakeholders.

The role combines ecosystem leadership, business development, commercialisation, stakeholder management and international growth. You will have a real opportunity to build something new and create tangible business value for the ecosystem and its members.

Key responsibilities

• lead and further develop the Digital Defence Ecosystem
• take overall responsibility for the ecosystem’s business performance, budget and sales
• develop and productise additional services that create measurable value for DDE member companies
• drive membership growth and strengthen member engagement and satisfaction
• build new business opportunities together with member companies and ecosystem partners
• develop international partnerships, market access activities and collaboration models
• lead funding initiatives, including Business Finland and increasingly EU-funded programmes, and ensure delivery against agreed ecosystem targets
• develop operating models, structures and processes as the organisation grows
• lead the project team and, over time, potentially assume direct line-management responsibility for selected key employees

What we expect from you

You have a strong business mindset and a proven track record of delivering results in an international environment. You combine strategic thinking with the ability and willingness to turn ideas into concrete action.

We expect you to have:

• relevant Master’s degree or equivalent higher education qualification
• proven experience in international business and complex business environments
• experience in business development, growth, commercialisation or building new services and operating models
• experience in large and complex projects, programmes, ecosystems or network-based environments
• strong commercial and entrepreneurial mindset
• excellent stakeholder management, networking and relationship-building skills
• strong public speaking and C-level presentation skills, combined with the ability to actively build networks and visibility through social media
• ability to develop processes and structures while also performing effectively in an evolving environment
• strong execution capability and willingness to take ownership
• fluent English and Finnish, both spoken and written

Previous experience in the defence or security sector is an advantage, but not a requirement. Relevant experience may equally come from technology, industry, international business or other demanding networked environments.

Experience or understanding of industrial strategy, industrial policy, security of supply, public administration or EU funding is also considered an advantage.

Working at DDE and XD Solutions

The position is permanent and reports to the CEO of XD Solutions Oy.

The primary locations are Espoo and Tampere. Regular presence at the office is encouraged, while flexible remote work is possible when appropriate.

The role requires readiness to travel both in Finland and internationally. DDE already operates in a broad international environment, and international cooperation will become increasingly important as the ecosystem develops.

The selected person will be required to pass a security clearance.

Apply for the position

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced business leader who wants to help shape the future of the Finnish defence ecosystem, build new international business opportunities and create lasting value for a growing network of companies and partners.

Please submit your application and CV through our recruitment system.

The recruitment is carried out in cooperation with StaffPoint Executive. For further information, please contact Senior Advisor Veli-Matti Savo, tel. +358 400 688535. Veli-Matti will be available for enquiries on Wednesday, 7 October, from 8.00 to 10.00