AI Program Manager - Energy Sector - ASAP Start - Freelance / CDI

A major player in the European energy landscape is seeking a Program Manager to support its strategic transformation initiatives. The organisation plays a central role in ensuring reliable and sustainable energy supply and is actively involved in the transition toward a greener and more digitally enabled energy system.

You will collaborate with internal teams and external experts to contribute to the development of a sustainable, innovative, and future‑proof energy infrastructure. The work environment values diversity, inclusion, and multidisciplinary collaboration.

The Program Manager will operate within a central transformation office responsible for high‑impact, transversal programmes aligned with long‑term strategic ambitions. Working closely with senior leadership, the role requires leading complex programmes end‑to‑end and structuring execution across business domains.

The first assignment consists of steering the large‑scale deployment of AI solutions across the organisation, involving high strategic stakes and frequent interaction with executive stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Program Design & Alignment

• Translate strategic objectives into a clear programme vision, scope, roadmap, deliverables, and governance model.
• Define macro‑planning (WBS), resource needs, budget, risk landscape, and stakeholder ecosystem.
• Build programme structures and assemble required competencies.

Execution & Delivery

• Break down the programme into actionable projects and ensure alignment with business owners.
• Drive project execution to meet deadlines, budget expectations, quality criteria, and safety standards.
• Manage transversal dependencies, procurement steps, risks, and resolution of major issues.
• Ensure transparent reporting, prepare decision‑ready content, and adjust programme plans as needed.

Governance & Stakeholder Management

• Organise and lead programme committees, project boards, and cross‑department meetings.
• Communicate proactively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Consolidate reporting and prepare key updates for senior leadership.

Team Leadership & Coaching

• Build and motivate the programme team; set objectives and follow up performance.
• Provide feedback, guidance, and support to project leaders.
• Foster a culture of accountability, constructive challenge, and continuous improvement.

Knowledge Sharing & Corporate Contribution

• Capture and share lessons learned, methodologies, and best practices across the organisation.
• Contribute to transversal initiatives and internal working groups when relevant.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field (Engineering, Business, Economics, Technology, etc.).
• Proven experience in programme management, strategic transformation, or complex multi‑stakeholder projects.
• Proficiency in Dutch and/or French, with a good command of English.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to translate vision into operational plans.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience interacting with senior leadership.
• Expertise in risk management, governance frameworks, budgeting, and reporting.
• Strong leadership capabilities: team motivation, conflict management, coaching.
• Proactive, structured, result‑driven, and comfortable working in high‑visibility, high‑pressure environments.
• Experience in digital transformation or AI‑related programmes is considered an asset.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within the wider organisation.

Additional Information

• Location: Brussels
• Onsite presence: Minimum 2 days per week
• Work regime: Full-time
• Eligibility (Non‑EU candidates):• Must hold a valid work permit for Belgium
• Must hold a valid Belgian residence permit

Why This Mission Is Attractive

• Opportunity to contribute to a flagship initiative in the energy sector.
• Direct involvement in strategic transformation and AI deployment at scale.
• A collaborative work environment focused on well‑being, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
• The chance to help accelerate the energy transition and contribute to impactful, future‑oriented programmes.

• Must hold a valid work permit (if non‑EU)
• Must hold a valid residence permit