Managing Director

The Oranjehotel National Monument is seeking an inspiring and strategic executive director

The Oranjehotel National Monument is located in the former Scheveningen prison. During World War II, more than 25,000 people were imprisoned here under German occupation—from resistance fighters and politicians to Jews and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Since its opening in 2019, the Oranjehotel has evolved into a powerful memorial center and museum. In authentic spaces such as Cell 601, personal stories come to life: stories of fear, courage, hope, and loyalty. The permanent exhibition and temporary displays connect the past with the present and invite visitors to reflect.

Our mission is clear and relevant: to show how fragile freedom is. As a museum and a place of remembrance, we bring history and society into dialogue with one another—through permanent exhibitions, temporary exhibitions, educational programs, lectures, and an annual commemoration. We do this with a small, dedicated staff and over 80 volunteers. Together, we give meaning to remembrance, learning, and living together—for future generations as well.

What will you be doing?

As Executive Director, you will set the direction for our organization and represent the Oranjehotel to the outside world. You will be responsible for our strategic direction, culture, and continuity. In doing so, you will work closely with your team, our volunteers, and our community and museum partners.

Your role will include, among other things:

• Leading the organization: professionally, with dedication, and with a focus on people
• Deepening our mission: strengthening our role in public discourse, education, and the museum landscape
• Keeping the organization future-proof: financially, substantively, and organizationally
• Nurturing and strengthening our collaboration with volunteers and staff
• Enabling new initiatives – in collaboration with partners in heritage, education, and the community
• Overseeing the Oranjehotel’s museum profile: managing and further developing the presentation, public programming, and the substantive quality of exhibitions

 You'll have the freedom to add your own touches, building on what's already there.

Who are we looking for?

You are an experienced leader who knows how to listen, provide direction, and build connections. You feel at home in an environment that embraces social responsibility. The stories we tell resonate with you, and you know how to give them meaning—even in a changing society.

We are looking for someone who:

• has extensive experience in an administrative or managerial role within the fields of culture, education, or a nonprofit organization
• has a keen sense of proportion and decision-making
• is skilled at guiding people and organizations through their development
• has a background in finance and is experienced in fundraising
• has experience in or an affinity for the museum or heritage sector, including knowledge of audience-oriented presentation and content positioning
• is familiar with or open to collaboration within a supervisory board structure
• identifies with the values of democracy, justice, solidarity, and historical awareness
• actively works to promote diversity and accessibility—both within the team and among the audience we reach
• brings generations together, based on respect for everyone’s story

A bachelor’s or master’s degree is preferred. We also strongly encourage applications from candidates whose personal history or background is underrepresented in the heritage sector.

What do we offer?

• A meaningful role in an organization where the past and the future come together
• A team that is deeply committed to education, museum exhibitions, and social engagement
• A work environment that encourages initiative and collaborative growth
• A 36-hour-per-week position, initially for one year, with the possibility of a permanent position
• A salary based on scale 14 of the Museum Collective Bargaining Agreement (€5,374 – €7,931 per month, depending on experience). In addition, an 8% vacation allowance and a 3.4% year-end bonus are included in the benefits package.
• Professional development opportunities through training and advanced study
• An inclusive workplace where you can speak up and be yourself 

About the procedure

As of January 1, 2026, we are seeking a new executive director, due to the current director’s upcoming retirement. In 2025, we will transition to a Supervisory Board model. As executive director, you will play a key role in this process and work with the current board to ensure a smooth transition.

Schedule:

• You can submit your comments through September 5 via hr@solon-net.nl, including your resume and a brief cover letter
• The first interviews will take place on Wednesday, September 24 (between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.)
• Second round on Friday, October 3 (same times)
• A presentation and, possibly, a development assessment are part of the process

If you have any questions or would like to request additional documents (annual report, job description, or strategic plan), please contact Solon Management and Organization at 0186 – 621944 or hr@solon-net.nl. You can also contact Solon with substantive questions; they will then put you in touch with the chair of the Supervisory Board.

Interested?

Do you see yourself in this profile and would you like to help keep stories about freedom, responsibility, and human dignity alive? If so, we’d love to meet you.

Recruitment agencies are asked to refrain from contacting us regarding this job opening.