Junior Researcher / Product Manager Substrates, De Lier

Kekkilä-BVB is the European leader in horticulture. provide products and services for professional greenhouse growers, retail, consumers and landscapers in over 100 countries worldwide. We have strong product brands within the professional and consumer growing markets, trading under the names of BVB Substrates, Kekkilä Professional, Brill Substrates, BVB Landscaping, Kekkilä, Hasselfors Garden, Terra Brill, Jardino and Florentus. Together with our customers, we bring performance to life. Kekkilä-BVB is part of Neova Group.

The Role
Are you eager to turn scientific insight into market-ready innovations? We are looking for a Junior Researcher / Junior Product Manager to strengthen our Innovation and Global Product Management teams. This dynamic, hybrid role uniquely blends applied research with hands-on product and data management, giving you the chance to grow into a well-rounded professional at the intersection of science, business, and innovation.

You will report directly to the Chief Innovation Officer and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, including Innovation, Product Management, Sales, Operations, Quality, Sustainability, and external research partners. Working in this international setting, you will help translate ideas and data into impactful products that make a real difference in the market.

Your Responsibilities

Junior Researcher (±60%)

• Plan and execute applied research projects related to plant growing media

• Develop and test recipes that meet quality, performance, and sustainability standards

• Conduct and monitor trials, record conditions, identify deviations, and take corrective actions

• Coordinate and document external trials with growers, customers, and research partners

• Assess raw materials based on standards, regulations, and risk management principles

• Validate analytical methods and report research results clearly and accurately

• Support quality assurance activities across product management, operations, and procurement

Junior Product Manager (±40%)

• Manage product portfolio data for BA Global and BA Nordics (Central factories)

• Create and maintain product information in internal systems

• Prepare and update product data sheets for sales and customers

• Ensure accurate, consistent, and compliant product and brand information

• Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, Operations, Procurement, Quality, Legal, and Customer Service

• Maintain packaging content and layout in line with brand guidelines

You will bring:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agricultural, Horticultural, Plant Science, or (Applied) Biology

• 1–2 years of relevant work experience (research, product management, or similar)

• Fluent in English (written and spoken), Dutch is an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Proven understanding of research principles and applied testing

• Interest in raw materials, substrates, and product performance

• Hands-on, practical mindset with attention to detail

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Structured and systematic way of working

• Team player who collaborates easily across disciplines

• Proactive, curious, and eager to learn in an international setting

What do you get in return?

• A unique hybrid role combining research and product management

• Exposure to international innovation and product development projects

• Collaboration with experts across multiple disciplines

• A dynamic, professional, and sustainability-driven organisation

• Valuable experience within a leading company in professional horticulture

• A 12-month contract, with the prospect of a permanent position

• A challenging and dynamic working environment with opportunities for professional growth and development

• A stimulating work culture based on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement

• A competitive salary and attractive fringe benefits, such as:
  - Non-contributory pension
  - 24 holidays
  - 8% holiday pay
  - Hybrid working model; office location De Lier allowing you to work average 1 day per week at home

• We stimulate a healthy lifestyle offering fresh fruit in the office & financially attractive sports subscriptions

• A chance to be part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration.

• A friendly and active staff association (voluntary)

• And above all, the best colleagues in the business.

  At Kekkilä-BVB, we are driven by our core values:
  - Focus on customer success: We strive to provide our customers with the best possible service and support and strive for long-term relationships based on trust and mutual success.
  - Achieving together: We believe in the power of cooperation and teamwork and work together on common goals to realise our vision.
  - Courage to renew: We embrace change and innovation and encourage our employees to explore new ideas and face challenges with creativity and determination.
  - Trust through respect: We treat each other with respect and integrity and create an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

  Do you recognise yourself in this position, or are you ready for the next step in your career? And can you identify with our core values? We would then like to receive your motivation and CV.

  For more information about this position, don't hesitate to get in touch with Päivi Martikainen (paivi.martikainen@kekkila-bvb.com)  or if you have questions about the procedure, please get in touch with Mandy Koppendraier (mandy.koppendraier@kekkila-bvb.com).