Project Manager Zero Emission Aviation

Introduction

It’s 2027. KLM, together with its partners, is conducting a groundbreaking demonstration flight using liquid hydrogen. Once again, KLM proves its pioneering role in aviation. And you? You are part of the team that made this possible. Together with colleagues from various divisions, you have built this project from the ground up. And this is just the beginning. The team is already working hard on the next step: establishing a Zero Emission network on specific routes. After that will come larger aircraft, longer distances, and an ever-expanding network. Will you join us?

What are you going to do?

Aviation stands on the verge of a sustainable revolution. Battery-electric, hydrogen-electric, hybrid concepts, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and smart connections between train and plane—innovations are quickly following one another. Although new technologies still face major certification challenges, the ecosystem of manufacturers, airlines, and fuel producers is rapidly working on solutions.

The Zero Emission Aviation program focuses on disruptive innovations that will truly make aviation more sustainable. As Project Manager, you make this tangible. You delve into new technologies, analyze developments, coordinate projects with a mix of stakeholders, and prepare the implementation of groundbreaking innovations.

You will focus on the following areas of results:

• Analyzing the most up-to-date studies and articles in this field and converting them into useful input for various reports and presentations;
• Acquiring the necessary expertise for active contribution to the content of various work packages with external parties;
• Project management of innovative projects with strategic impact on the AF-KL business, involving a wide range of stakeholders and interdisciplinary teams with diverse skills and sometimes conflicting interests;
• Preparing presentations for senior management and (external) stakeholders.

Where do you land?

You will work at Fleet Services, the division responsible for the KLM fleet. You will report to the Program Manager Zero Emission Aviation.

Your profile

You are an independent and proactive professional with a keen eye for structure, analysis, and execution. We can count on you, even when you are challenged by unfamiliar situations. You know how to successfully oversee multiple complex projects at the same time and move effortlessly within a dynamic, non-hierarchical network.

As a connector, you easily establish contact and build sustainable relationships, both inside and outside the organization. Colleagues see you as a true “fixer”: you think in terms of solutions, keep a cool head when facing unexpected developments, and make sure things get done.

You realize you are working on long-term solutions, which may not be immediately visible, but which do contribute to a sustainable future for aviation. You are energized by achieving improvements step by step and understand that real change takes time.

Furthermore, you bring:

• A completed university degree (WO-level);
• 3–5 years of relevant work experience;
• Demonstrable experience in project management;
• Design Thinking and Agile are a plus;
• Excellent communication skills;
• Fluent command of English;
• Knowledge of the world of hydrogen and battery applications in aviation is a plus.

Competencies

• Drive
• Innovation
• Critical thinking
• Building and maintaining relationships
• Planning and organizing
• Achieving results
• Strategic vision

Competencies