Vacancy: Manager for Defence and Strategic Connectivity

Who We Are 

DIGITALEUROPE is the leading trade association representing digitally transforming industries in Europe. 

We stand for a regulatory environment that enables European businesses and citizens to prosper from digital technologies. We wish Europe to grow, attract and sustain the world’s best digital talents and technology companies. 

Together with our members, we shape the industry policy positions on all relevant legislative matters and contribute to the development and implementation of relevant EU policies. Our membership represents over 45,000 businesses who operate and invest in Europe. It includes 116 corporations which are global leaders in their field of activity, as well as 41 national trade associations from across Europe and representation in Washington, DC. 

Key Responsibilities & Job Description 

As Manager for Defence and Secure Connectivity, you will play a central role in shaping and driving DIGITALEUROPE’s policy agenda on defence digitalisation and resilience, dual-use technologies, and secure & strategic connectivity. In this dual capacity, you will lead the Strategic and Secure Connectivity Working Group and support the coordination of the Defence Working Group. You will report to the Director for Digital Resilience and Defence. 

Your responsibilities will include: 

• Defence policy support: Support the Director in coordinating the activities of the Defence Working Group, including preparing meetings, drafting minutes and policy inputs, monitoring defence developments, representing the association externally — particularly at the EU and NATO levels — and liaising with industry stakeholders and institutional partners. 

• Strategic coordination: Lead the Strategic and Secure Connectivity Working Group, organising regular meetings, engaging members, and developing common policy positions on digital infrastructure and connectivity, including those relevant to European resilience and sovereignty. 

• Policy monitoring and drafting: Monitor policy and technological developments at the EU, NATO, and industry levels related to connectivity, defence, dual-use innovation, and the protection of critical infrastructure. Draft briefings, position papers, and advocacy materials. 

• Stakeholder engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with DIGITALEUROPE members as well as EU institutions — Member state representatives in the Council of the EU, the European Commission (DG DEFIS, DG CONNECT), European External Action Service (EEAS), EU agencies such as EDA, BEREC and ENISA, the European Parliament Committees (SEDE, ITRE, IMCO), and relevant NATO bodies. 

• Event coordination and outreach: Contribute to the organisation of high-level events, round-tables, workshops, and delegations — including participation in key policy forums and stakeholder missions. 

• Support cross-cutting initiatives: Collaborate with other DIGITALEUROPE teams to align defence and connectivity priorities with digital infrastructure, cyber resilience, and industrial competitiveness agendas. 

Key Requirements 

• 4–6 years of relevant professional experience across defence and secure connectivity. 

• Strong knowledge of both EU and NATO policy frameworks, with a focus on defence digitalisation, dual-use technologies, and connectivity policy and regulation. 

• Demonstrated understanding of the European defence industrial ecosystem, including institutional actors, funding mechanisms, capability development initiatives, and technological trends. 

• Familiarity with current and emerging connectivity policies and frameworks, such as the European Electronic Communications Code, the Digital Networks Act, and radio frequency spectrum management. 

• Proven track record in stakeholder coordination, policy analysis, and the production of high-quality briefings, minutes, and position papers. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of other EU languages is considered an asset. 

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment. 
• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as international relations, political science, security and defence studies, EU affairs, engineering, or telecommunications. A Master’s degree is considered an advantage. 

What we offer 

At DIGITALEUROPE we foster a collaborative culture where every team member can identify their strengths and grow in their career. We encourage taking initiative and developing a vision for a stronger digital Europe.    

DIGITALEUROPE is one of the largest trade associations in Brussels with an office of over 60 people. Our staff comes from over 30 nationalities and speaks 37 languages with equal gender representation. We offer a permanent contract with a competitive salary package, along with multiple opportunities for professional development and career growth. 

Why join us 

At DIGITALEUROPE, you will be at the heart of Europe, helping to shape the EU digital policy, and contributing to building the future of Europe. Voted the most impactful trade association in Brussels, DIGITALEUROPE has been the fastest-growing association, tripled in size over the last few years. With us, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact, grow your career, and contribute to the development of Europe’s digital future. 

Contact & Application Process  

Interested candidates should send a CV and a short motivation letter by 13 September 2025 via this application form.  

Based on the volume of applications received, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. The expected starting date is as soon as possible.  

For any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Federica Tondo at federica.tondo@digitaleurope.org.