Ms. Federica Valente is the Hub for EU Defence Innovation Manager at the European Defence Agency (EDA), where she has been instrumental in designing and managing the Hub’s portfolio since its inception. In her role, Ms. Valente drives the strategic direction of the Hub, overseeing its deployment, leading a dedicated team, and managing relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. She also plays a pivotal role in defining and advancing the Agency’s Technology Watch and Foresight agenda.
With over 15 years of experience in the defence sector, Ms. Valente has excelled in various roles, including researcher, program manager, and business development leader. During her tenure at the Netherlands Applied Research Institute (TNO), she was responsible for managing key stakeholder relationships across Europe, the USA, and South-East Asia, significantly contributing to business development and expanding TNO’s international reach. Her expertise in R&T projects, short-cycle innovation initiatives, defence procurement analysis, and operational studies further solidified her reputation in the industry. At TNO, she also authored several research papers, participated in NATO panels, and served as a trusted advisor to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence on European funding mechanisms such as PADR, EDIDP, and EDF.
In addition to her role at EDA, Ms. Valente serves as a mentor for the European Innovation Council’s Women Leadership Program, where she supports the development of emerging female leaders in innovation. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees at the International School of Brussels, contributing her strategic insights and leadership to the institution.