Managing Director

As Managing Director, you are the face of the organization and lead our team, which works with great passion and empathy and expects the same from you as a leader. You set the course and ensure a solid strategic and financial foundation. You are responsible for policy, strategy, finances, personnel, and ALF’s entire program of activities. In doing so, you work closely with a committed Board of Supervisors, which provides guidance from an appropriate distance. We expect you to lead the organization in the coming years and consolidate its position in the city. You are motivating and a unifying force. 

About us 

The Amsterdam Light Festival is a Public Benefit Organization (ANBI), which means that we are dedicated to a social purpose and operate on a non-profit basis. We are committed to our artistic identity as a creators’ festival: the festival has made light art accessible to a broad audience and has given artists the opportunity to create new work. We want to continue on this path. At the same time, we cherish our entrepreneurial DNA: less than 15% of the budget comes from (project) grants; the remainder is financed with private funds. The ideal candidate therefore has broad experience within the cultural sector and an affinity for the artistic side,whilethe focus lies on the business/organizational aspects.  

What will you be doing? 

• Further developing the organization, which includes supporting your teams and departments in achieving their goals, facilitating change within the organization, and ensuring effective collaboration and communication.  
• Inspiring, motivating, and guiding a passionate team. 
• Contribute to strengthening our position in the city by building partnerships, increasing our visibility, and remaining relevant to the local community. 
• Developing policies and strategies for a future-proof festival. 
• Balancing artistic ambitions with business feasibility. 
• Maintaining and expanding networks within and outside Amsterdam. 
• Ensuring a sound financial foundation and effective business operations. 
• Work closely with the Director of Light Art Collection, the sister organization that brings the art we’ve created back to life worldwide after the festival. 

What do you bring to the table? 

We are looking for a director who combines artistic and business skills, with a focus on business and organizational aspects. You recognize yourself in the following qualities: 

• Team builder and team player: you motivate and bring people together. 
• Experience in the cultural sector: you understand the dynamics of a cultural organization. 
• Stakeholder management: You understand how Amsterdam works and, ideally, have a strong network in the city. 
• Proven management skills: you have experience leading a medium-sized organization. 
• Financially sound: you can ensure sound business operations.  

What do we offer? 

• A unique opportunity to lead an iconic Amsterdam festival. 
• An inspiring work environment with a passionate and professional team.  
• The opportunity to make an impact.  
• Employment terms and conditions commensurate with the responsibilities of the position and the industry. We generally follow the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Performance Venues and Festivals. 

An assessment is part of the selection process. 

Are you our new director? 

Please send your cover letter and resume to hr@amsterdamlightfestival.com by February 15, 2025. We look forward to hearing your vision for the future of the Amsterdam Light Festival and how you can help us bring it to life. If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact Felix Guttmann at felix@amsterdamlightfestival.com 

Diversity and Inclusion  

At Amsterdam Light Festival, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that differences in background, perspective, and experience make us stronger. That is why we encourage everyone to apply, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Together, we are building an organization where everyone feels welcome and valued.