Deputy Director of the Netherlands Institute for Social Research

Registration

The SCP has a long tradition of assessing the state of the Netherlands in terms of citizens’ quality of life, civic participation, social cohesion and solidarity among citizens, the distribution of wealth, and the relationship between citizens and the government. In recent years, the SCP has undergone a transition toward stable funding and a new program structure. The starting point of the new structure is that issues are analyzed holistically from the disciplines represented in the various research programs. To further strengthen our relevance to policy, we align our activities with the policy cycle, and our research is future-oriented. Close alignment with the policy cycle requires a shift in our way of working and communicating, which must take further shape in the coming period. On key policy themes, we assess the effects of policy choices on the quality of society. Examples of themes include labor market shortages, asylum and migration, pandemic preparedness, climate, and the sustainability of healthcare. We work closely with other planning agencies, knowledge institutions, and advisory bodies.

The SCP is also undergoing significant changes in terms of its internal organization. Activities in the area of public affairs will be further intensified in the coming period. Because we are working more intensively than before to ensure the impact of our research on government policy, we will invest in strategic workforce planning, professional development for staff (including leadership development), and recruiting employees who bring new expertise to the organization. Finally, the SCP has grown by about 25% in recent years. This requires a reassessment of our job classification system and renewed attention to diversity and inclusion, to procedures, and to how we organize decision-making.  

Public leadership

This position requires visible public leadership. As a public leader, you are responsible for driving the achievement of societal goals. According to the government-wide vision on public leadership, you have three roles in this regard: societal partner, political advisor, and manager within your own organization. And you always uphold the three core values: shared leadership, responsiveness, and moral motivation.

Want to know if public leadership is right for you? Click here.

Public sector leaders within the central government (at salary grade 15 and above) collectively form the General Administrative Service (ABD). They meet to exchange knowledge and experience, and to pursue the ongoing professional development that is essential for long-term employability.

This position requires visible public leadership. As a public leader, you will focus on achieving societal goals. 

Job Requirements

What does this require of you? 

We are looking for a deputy director who can help advance the mission described above. To do so, you must possess (among other things) the following experience and qualities: 

• You are a collaborative, approachable, and enthusiastic leader who can demonstrate that you have the inspiring vision and results-oriented focus needed to steer and further professionalize the areas mentioned above.
• You have extensive experience in further developing business operations at the strategic level and can proudly share your achievements in this area.
• You have a keen understanding of political and administrative dynamics and the SCP’s role within them, and you understand how the interdepartmental and policy context works—preferably through work experience at a government ministry.
• You have experience with (managing) knowledge development in the context of policy and society.
• When necessary, you are firm and resolute, you speak your mind, and you know how to handle dissent in a constructive manner.
• You have a university degree in a relevant field. Work experience at a university or a government research institute is preferred. 

Talent as a foundation, diversity as a strength 

We are always looking for employees who want to make a difference in the Netherlands. As the national government, we are convinced that we perform at our best when we have a diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, orientations, and expertise within our organization. Working on social issues in diverse teams is more effective, more innovative—and makes the work more enjoyable. 

Terms of Employment

• Salary level: Grade 17
  
• Monthly salary: Min. €7,586 – Max. €10,125 (gross)
  
• Employment status: Permanent employment contract
  
• Minimum number of hours per week: 36
  
• Maximum number of hours per week: 36 
  

Other terms and conditions of employment

What do we offer? 

As a public leader, do you want to dedicate yourself to the public good and make a difference in society? Do the challenges associated with this role excite you? Can you inspire the right people and organizations to take action? Are you aware of current issues and able to address them respectfully? Are you motivated to commit to this social mission and capable of achieving results? If so, we’d love to hear from you.  

In addition to your salary, you will receive 16.37% as an Individual Choice Budget (ICB). This includes 8% vacation pay. With the ICB, you can make choices that suit you and tailor part of your employment conditions yourself. The comprehensive benefits package for the General Administrative Service is part of the Central Government Collective Bargaining Agreement.

You will also receive full reimbursement for your commute. The federal government operates on a hybrid model, meaning you can work from the office, remotely from home, or from another location. In addition, you can count on excellent work-from-home facilities. 

Guidance 

And we offer even more: we have a comprehensive onboarding program ready for you, and you’ll receive excellent support. We’ll also work with you to identify your needs. This way, we ensure that you not only feel welcome but also at home in your new workplace—even if you’ve never worked for the Dutch government before. 

Development 

We are also strongly committed to personal growth and career development; we provide all our employees with the necessary budget, time, and support for this. In addition, the DGABD offers an engaging and varied program specifically designed for managers within the central government; see www.algemenebestuursdienst.nl/professionele-ontwikkeling. We also provide customized solutions to meet specific needs. 

Details 

You are not required to include your date of birth and gender in your resume and cover letter. Public sources such as social media may be consulted. A selection assessment may be part of the process. References may also be requested. A security screening is part of the selection process.

Before you start work, you will need a Certificate of Good Conduct; you will be informed about this during the hiring process.

You can find more information about the application process here. 

Interested in applying?

The Netherlands Institute for Social Research invites you to apply on their website. Click the button below to leave this site and go directly to the application form. The government values a diverse and inclusive organization. Working in diverse teams makes us more effective, more innovative, and makes the work more enjoyable. Everyone is therefore invited to apply.