Key Skills

Job Description

Project Manager – Research & Stakeholder Engagement LIFE EU Pre-Project Phase (October 2026 – April 2027) Position Details Contract Type: ZZP (Self-employed / Freelance) Hours: 2–16 hours per week (flexible, as needed) Duration: October 2026 – April 2027 (with extension potential through LIFE project period) Start Date: Oct/Nov 2027 Compensation: €35/hour Location: Netherlands-based with local engagement preferred; some remote work possible The Opportunity The Forest Farms Institute is preparing a ground-breaking LIFE EU project proposal to demonstrate how complex agroforestry models can deliver mitigation and adaptation benefits for food production in the face of hydrological challenges in the sandy soils region of Brabant & Flanders. This pre-project phase (October 2026 - April 2027) is critical: we're building a strong foundation by mapping policy landscapes, identifying ecological bottlenecks, strengthening technical research, and assembling a powerful multi-stakeholder coalition. As Project Manager, you'll coordinate networks across research institutions, government bodies, NGOs, farmers, and impact partners. You'll conduct research, facilitate co-creation sessions, connect perspectives across work packages, and help shape a proposal for LIFE funding that can span 8+ years. About the Project Over the past 12 months, the Forest Farms Institute has built a strong consortium with a clear vision and an impactful proposal. The LIFE project focuses on drought adaptation and climate resilience on sandy soils in the Netherlands and Belgium, demonstrating how bioregional complex agroforestry can address water management challenges and secure food production for the future. With support from Waterschap Den Domel and impact partners, we've secured funding for this pre-project phase to sharpen the proposal, map relevant policy frameworks, identify ecological bottlenecks, strengthen technical underpinnings, and build a coalition of stakeholders committed to the long-term vision. Your Role Coordinate networks across research institutions, NGOs, government bodies, farmers, and innovation platforms Conduct desk research and analysis of relevant policy landscapes (water, agriculture, biodiversity, climate) Identify ecological bottlenecks and research hydrological dynamics in sandy-soil regions (NL/BE) Lead multi-stakeholder brainstorming and co-creation sessions with partner organisations Contribute thematic content to proposal writing cycles with Partners For Innovation Prepare findings reports and deliver presentations to stakeholder groups Facilitate strategic conversations connecting insights across work packages What We're Looking For Essential Qualifications University-level education (Master's degree or equivalent) Strong interest in environmental policy, hydrology, ecology, systems analysis, or agroecology Proven experience leading multi-stakeholder projects (in any sector) Excellent communication skills in English; Dutch is desirable Experience with reporting, presentations, and stakeholder engagement Ability to work independently, create structure, and meet deadlines Key Qualities Strong networking ability and natural connector of diverse perspectives Curiosity and willingness to dive deeply into new subject matter Ability to ask the right questions and synthesize insights across disciplines Comfort with ambiguity and complexity; capacity to shape direction and structure from emerging insights What We Offer Central role in a transformative EU-funded innovation project with real-world climate adaptation impact Flexible, independent work on a freelance basis with clear deliverables Competitive hourly compensation (€35/hour) negotiable based on experience Opportunity to extend through the full LIFE project period (8+ years) Collaboration with leading researchers, policymakers, and regenerative agriculture practitioners Work with a visionary organization dedicated to land restoration and ecological regeneration How to Apply Send your CV, letter of motivation, and any relevant portfolio materials to:info[at]forestfarmsinstitute.org Subject: "Application: Project Manager FFI Pre-Project" Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Stichting Forest Farms Institute Dedicated to ecosystem restoration and regenerative agriculture through syntropic farming, research, and knowledge-building.

Core Responsibilities

The Project Manager will coordinate multi-stakeholder networks and conduct research on policy landscapes and ecological bottlenecks to support a LIFE EU project proposal. They will facilitate co-creation sessions and synthesize insights across various work packages to shape the long-term project vision.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Master's degree or equivalent and possess proven experience in leading multi-stakeholder projects. Strong communication skills in English and a deep interest in environmental policy, hydrology, or agroecology are essential.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Remote work opportunities
• Collaboration with leading researchers and policymakers