Director

At the Samenwonen-Samenleven Foundation, everything revolves around the power of community. For 20 years, we have been working with residentsto build inclusive neighborhoods where everyone can participate and feel at home. Through initiatives driven by the residents themselves, we create space for social connection, entrepreneurship, and social change. Samenwonen-Samenleven has established many partnerships in Nieuw-West, including a long-standing, productive collaboration with the district.

We are looking for a director who will build on the solid foundation we have established with courage, vision, and warmth. The director we are seeking is a strategic builder, a connector, and an ally in our neighborhoods. With your enthusiasm and drive, you will inspire staff, volunteers, and partners to continue innovating together and making an impact.

Who are we?

The Samenwonen-Samenleven Foundation is a pioneer in social work and social entrepreneurship in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. We operate out of three vibrant locations:

• The Ru Paré community: the beating heart where reciprocity is central and residents actively contribute to the community.
• Wildeman Station: a vibrant hub in the Wildeman neighborhood that provides a space for community initiatives and inclusive activities.
• Platform 32: a space designed for parents and children, where social cohesion and opportunity development are central.

Our approach is unique: we always start with the residents and their needs. Reciprocity, inclusion, and solidarity are the core values that drive us. Together with residents and partners, we develop initiatives that strengthen the neighborhood and break down existing barriers.

In addition to Samenwonen-Samenleven, as director you are also responsible forthe affiliated foundation Samen Ondernemen.This foundation plays a key role in promoting social entrepreneurship and developing sustainable initiatives that strengthen the neighborhood’s economic vitality. Samen Ondernemen contributes to an inclusive, entrepreneurial community in which residents are actively involved in creating opportunities and solutions.

The organization

Samenwonen-Samenleven and Samen Ondernemen together form a dynamic and growing organization with approximately17 dedicated staff membersand about20 committed volunteers. We operate within an informal culture centered on reciprocity, collaboration, and ownership. In recent years, we have made significant strides in growth and social impact. Samenwonen-Samenleven’s annual budget exceeds 1.7 million euros. With the retirement of our founding director, the time has now come to further strengthen this foundation, create room for specialization, and prepare the organization for the next phase of development.

Your role as director

As director, you are the driving force behind our organization’s mission and vision. You oversee day-to-day operations and continue to build an inspiring and professional organization where employees, volunteers, and partners can contribute to the fullest. Your role is multifaceted and dynamic:

• Internally:You foster a culture of ownership and collaboration, where employees feel valued and heard. You contribute to the organization’s ongoing professional development and guide teams toward greater independence and specialization.
• External:You are the public face of Samenwonen-Samenleven and Samen Ondernemen. You build bridges with residents, funders, community partners, and the district to create opportunities and make an impact together.
• Strategic:You develop forward-looking plans that address the needs of neighborhoods, while strengthening and innovating social work and social entrepreneurship.
• Professional:You have overall responsibility for finance, project management, and sustainable growth, and are able to make strategic decisions that drive the organization forward.

What do you bring to the table?

• A deep-seated passion for community building, social mobility, and social entrepreneurship.
• The courage and drive to work with residents and business owners to develop innovative solutions.
• Strategic insight and the ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities.
• Inspiring leadership: you motivate, support, and foster growth.
• Experience in finance, organizational management, and project development.
• A collaborative and inclusive approach: you listen, build connections, and foster trust.
• An affinity for the dynamic atmosphere of Amsterdam Nieuw-West and the social work sector.

What do we offer you?

A unique opportunity to make an impact in a dynamic organization with a solid foundation and big ambitions. With us, you’ll have the freedom to build, innovate, and strengthen Amsterdam Nieuw-West alongside a dedicated team. You’ll have a versatile role in which you can further develop both social work and social entrepreneurship. The terms of employment are in accordance withthe Social Work collective bargaining agreement, with a startingsalaryinscale 15, offering room for personal growth and development. Acollegial and informal work environment with a dedicated board to which you will report.

Interested?

Would you like to join us in continuing to build an inclusive and strong community in Nieuw-West? You can apply through the recruitment agency Colourful People untilJanuary 13, 2025. If you have any questions, please contact Melek Usta at 06-20424347 orm.usta@colourfulpeople.nl. The first round of interviews will take place onJanuary 28 or 29, and the second round onFebruary 6. An assessment may be part of the process.