Company: ChainCraft

About the job

At ChainCraft, we are turning chemistry circular. We develop sustainable biotechnological processes that convert food waste into valuable bio-based fatty acids. As we enter a new phase of growth, we are looking for an Interim Senior Project Controller to support the realization of a complex, first-of-a-kind (FOAK) chemical plant in Ter Apelkanaal.

The project is currently in the final stage of securing financing. This will be followed by the construction team phase, leading up to Final Investment Decision (FID) and the start of construction in Ter Apelkanaal in Q4 2026.

As a FOAK facility, there is a high level of complexity in both the design and construction of the plant. This complexity creates a unique combination of potential financial risks that need to be closely monitored and managed.

While the financial structures themselves are not overly complex, the real challenge lies in managing this uncertainty, identifying deviations early, and steering the project accordingly. In addition, as this is the first project of its kind within ChainCraft, most financial processes, systems, and reporting structures related to the project still need to be set up and implemented from scratch. You will work closely with the Finance team, who provide support on transactional activities, allowing you to focus on setting up, steering, and improving the overall financial control of the project.

Requirements

You are a senior project controller who is comfortable working in complex project environments and brings structure where there is none yet. You easily switch between strategic thinking and hands-on execution and feel comfortable in a setting with high uncertainty and multiple senior stakeholders.

As a strong communicator, you act as a trusted advisor to the Project Director and Steering Committee, while also guiding the broader project team in financial processes. You are a true business partner who connects finance with the realities of the project.

You are confident, independent, and not afraid to challenge. You bring a clear point of view, stand your ground when needed, and combine this with a pragmatic, solution-oriented mindset. As a self-starter, you bring your own vision on how project control should be set up and have the drive to translate this into a concrete approach and execution in an environment where not everything is defined yet.

You have strong experience with contract management, specifically advising on financial conditions in contractor agreements.

You bring

  • Proven experience as a Project Controller on large capex projects (>€50M) within complex project environments where something tangible is being built, such as energy, infrastructure, construction, or process industry.
  • Experience with first-of-a-kind (FOAK) projects is a strong plus.
  • Strong communication skills in English; good understanding of Dutch (reading and comprehension) is required.
  • Availability for an interim assignment of approximately 3 days per week, starting June 2026 with an expected duration until the completion of the FS1 project (Q1 2028).

The candidate

As Interim Senior Project Controller, you are responsible for setting up and managing the financial control of the project. You work closely with the Project Director and Steering Committee and ensure there is clear and reliable financial insight throughout the project.

You will set up the project administration, reporting, and financial processes from the ground. You translate cost estimates into a detailed project budget and ensure ongoing monitoring, forecasting, and reporting.

You are also involved in contracts with contractors and suppliers. You monitor financial performance, track KPIs, and signal deviations and risks in time. You advise the project team and steering committee and help guide decisions from a financial perspective.

Key responsibilities:

  • Set up project administration, reporting, and financial control structures.
  • Translate cost estimates into a detailed and workable project budget.
  • Support contract setup and monitor financial performance of contractors and suppliers.
  • Act as an independent advisor to the board and challenge the project team where needed.
  • Support risk reviews and translate risks into financial impact.
  • Ensure alignment between project administration and the wider finance organization.
  • Guide the project team in financial processes and ways of working.

What we offer

At ChainCraft, you contribute to a more sustainable future by helping bring circular chemistry to life. You will be part of an ambitious and informal organization with an international team, working on a project that has real impact.

This interim assignment offers the opportunity to contribute to a pioneering FOAK project with real impact. You will work in a collaborative and down-to-earth environment with short lines of communication. Based on a 3-day workweek, approximately one day per week can be worked remotely. From the end of Q1 2027 onwards, you are expected to join team meetings in Ter Apelkanaal at least once per month to stay connected with the team. The assignment comes with a competitive hourly rate, aligned with the scope and seniority of the role, as well as travel compensation for commuting.

Experience level: Senior

How to apply: send your CV and motivation to hr@chaincraft.com