Director

The organization and its context

AORTA is Utrecht’s architecture center. For over 30 years, AORTA has been fostering public discourse on the built environment. Through debates, exhibitions, design research, guided tours, and initiatives such as the AORTA Table and Architectuurtje, the organization brings together diverse communities. 

AORTA operates at the intersection of design, policy, and society. Residents, designers, developers, and government officials come together here. The organization works independently and proactively, with a focus on the power of design and imagination. Its funding comes largely from grants from the City of Utrecht and from sponsorship contributions.  AORTA is a key substantive and independent partner in urban development: serving as a platform for reflection and debate on the city.

AORTA marks the start of a new phase. Our ambition is to increase our visibility, strengthen our position within the urban network, and make the organization less vulnerable through growth and professionalization. Starting in 2026, Aorta and the Rietveld Foundation will merge, and the Rietveld Prize, the Schröder Prize, and the Rietveld Lecture will also be organized by Aorta. This means additional responsibility, but also greater visibility and a new substantive partnership in the fields of architecture and urban planning. 

The position

The director leads AORTA and is responsible for its strategic direction, programming, organization, and finances. You will work under the supervision of the Board of Trustees and serve as the public face of the organization. You naturally navigate between strategy and execution. You develop the strategic direction, build relationships, and ensure that ideas translate into a strong and relevant program. You provide direction, but also ensure that things get done. It is crucial that the chosen approach leads to focus, continuity, and visibility.

Key priorities for the coming years

• Enhancing visibility and positioning: Positioning AORTA more prominently as the leading independent platform for debate and reflection on Utrecht’s urban development, with a greater presence in the city and in the media, and reaching both the professional community and a broader public. 
  
• Sharpening our substantive profile: identifying key themes, organizing debates, and taking a stand; further developing AORTA as a platform for shaping public opinion and setting the agenda, both in person and online. 
  
• Deepening and expanding the network: building lasting relationships with the municipality, the design sector, educational institutions, developers, and community partners 
  
• Strengthening the organization: expanding the team and capacity, and professionalizing work processes to ensure continuity 
  
• Broadening the financial base: developing new sources of revenue in addition to municipal funds through grants, partnerships, and our own initiatives 

Who are you?

• You have an interest in architecture, urban planning, and spatial issues 
  
• You have a clear vision and aren't afraid to speak your mind 
  
• You are visible, outspoken, and a key influencer in the public sphere 
  
• You move easily between government, design practice, and society 
  
• You are a networker who knows how to connect people and interests 
  
• You have experience in leadership and building an organization 
  
• You know how to identify opportunities and secure funding 
  
• You bring energy, direction, and focus 

What does AORTA offer?

• A role that directly impacts the quality of the living environment in Utrecht and the surrounding region 
  
• Opportunities to further develop an organization and its profile 
  
• A strong network of committed partners in the city and the sector 
  
• A compact and results-driven team 
  
• Employment terms and conditions appropriate to the size and nature of the organization 

To conclude

AORTA is looking for a director who understands the city, fosters dialogue, and drives the organization forward. Someone who can bridge content and networks and help AORTA establish an even stronger foothold in Utrecht.
Interested? 

The organization is being assisted in this process by the executive search firm Colourful People. For more information about this position, please call Winfred Voordendag, senior partner at Colourful People, at 06-28284706. To express your interest, please submit your cover letter and resumeby Sunday, May 17, via the application form on the Colourful People website. Interviews will be held on Friday, May 22, and Thursday, May 28.

Preferred start date: July 1, 2026, or as soon as possible.