Managing Director

Philzuid holds a unique position in the Dutch music scene, and September 2033 marks the start of our celebratory anniversary season. Philzuid will then have been in existence for twenty years, and we plan to celebrate this milestone with our audience and our partners in the southern Netherlands. As the premier orchestra of the South, Philzuid has become an integral part of life in Limburg, North Brabant, and Zeeland. Everyone knows us, and we know our audience. Wherever we perform, we see a large and diverse audience, and classical symphonic music is more popular than ever. Young people participating in our educational programs share our TikToks, and our Reels are trending. In the southern Netherlands, Philzuid is the driving force behind more music in the classroom; many children play an instrument themselves and are members of music associations. The concepts of inclusivity, diversity, and social impact are second nature to us; we are an orchestra of and for everyone. We are at the heart of society. Everyone experiences unforgettable moments of joy through our music—inside and outside concert halls, in surprising locations, live and online.

We are looking for an Executive Director who can bring our vision, as outlined in our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, to life in a way that unites our organization. The ideal candidate can champion our renewed mission toward 2035 and embody the core values of innovation, connection, and surprise. We need someone who can build trust and support at all levels in a complex environment, both internally and externally. Courage, experience, and belief in our potential are essential qualities for this role.

The position:

• Together with a passionate management team, you will lead Philzuid and create the ideal conditions for a reliable, enterprising, high-performing, creative, and productive arts organization. You will foster a safe and transparent culture within the organization, while maintaining a balance between calm and dynamism, and between freedom and structure.

• You will implement a successful and forward-looking artistic and business strategy, using our 2025–2028 activity plan as a starting point. You take into account the dreams, wishes, and interests of our stakeholders: starting with musicians, staff, the chief conductor, the artistic committee, and of course concertgoers, educational and social partners, sponsors,
  the business market, and funding agencies.

• You involve the chief conductor, the artistic committee, and the works council in important decisions in a transparent and inclusive manner, allowing for dialogue, feedback, and the development of joint solutions.

• You represent the organization externally, particularly at the strategic level, participate in consultative bodies, and maintain a relevant network of external contacts.

Job Requirements:

• Extensive strategic management experience in the cultural sector.

• Experience with strategic management in an orchestra organization with a classical and contemporary repertoire is a definite plus.

• A perspective on Philzuid’s position and profile within the Dutch music scene.

• Proven experience in maintaining open and respectful communication with all levels of an arts organization and its key stakeholders.

Competency Profile:

We are looking for a well-rounded individual with a collaborative leadership style who has mastered the art of delegation down to the finest detail. Someone who gives their colleagues the freedom and trust they need to thrive and excel. Your approach to leadership is inspiring and engaged, characterized by diplomacy and tact. You have a keen eye for opportunities and possibilities, which gives you a decisive and confidence-inspiring presence. As a true process-oriented thinker, you ensure that procedures are effectively implemented and monitored, thereby strengthening efficiency and effectiveness across departments and fostering integrated collaboration to achieve top results. You are highly skilled in social interactions and employ an open and transparent communication style to maintain a safe and transparent culture within the organization. Your approachability and willingness to welcome ideas and feedback contribute to a positive and stimulating work environment. As a warm, connecting, yet authoritative personality, you know how to build strong relationships without being overbearing or
ego-driven. This unique combination of qualities makes you a valued and effective leader within the organization.

Interested?

If this challenging position appeals to you and you possess the necessary skills and relevant experience, we look forward to receiving your application. Philzuid is working with the executive search firm Colourful People for this recruitment process. You can apply by uploading your resume and cover letter (in PDF format) by June 19 at the latest via www.colourfulpeople.nl. The position is compensated in accordance with the remuneration standards of the cultural sector, commensurate with the responsibilities of the role. Details are available upon request. The position is based in Maastricht and Eindhoven.
For direct contact or questions, please reach out to René F. Burgler, Esq., senior partner at Colourful People, via r.burgler@colourfulpeople.nl or at 06 28 57 54 36.

Philzuid is a foundation operating under the name Philharmonie Zuidnederland. We are a cultural ANBI institution and operate under a governance model that includes a Supervisory Board. Philzuid adheres to the Cultural Governance Code,
the Fair Practice Code, and the Diversity and Inclusion Code.

The schedule:

Week 25: The application deadline is June 19
Week 26: Preliminary interviews conducted by Colourful People
Week 28: Monday, July 8 – First round of selection interviews at Philzuid Eindhoven
Week 28: Friday, July 12 – Second round of selection interviews at Philzuid Maastricht