Member of the Supervisory Board
Art and creativity are not luxuries, but essentials. Especially now, when social relationships are under strain, they offer space for imagination, reflection, and connection. The Amsterdam University of the Arts trains creators who master their craft and contribute to the society of tomorrow. With six academies, a strong international focus, and deep roots in Amsterdam, the AHK is a dynamic learning environment where education and research converge, and where there is room for experimentation, interdisciplinarity, and social engagement.
The AHK is an open community where students, faculty, researchers, and creators come together in their shared ambition to make a difference—in the arts, in education and research, and beyond. To further that ambition, we are seeking a
- a committed and authoritative member of the supervisory board with a management background in the cultural sector
About the Board of Trustees
The board exercises comprehensive oversight of the administration and the organization, and serves as an employer and sounding board for the Executive Board. The board operates within the framework of good governance in higher professional education and works with various committees, including the Audit, Education & Research, and Compensation committees. The Board of Trustees meets in plenary session four to six times a year. In addition, there are opening ceremonies and special events to which trustees are warmly welcomed. The atmosphere is open and pleasant; the Board of Trustees functions as a team in which everyone’s input and strengths are valued. Transparency, equality, and social engagement are key principles in this regard.
The duties and powers of the Supervisory Board are set forth in theSupervisory Board Regulations, which also describe the appointment, compensation, and functioning of the Board. Appointment to the Supervisory Board is for a term of four years, with the possibility of one reappointment for an additional four years. The manner in which the Supervisory Board performs its supervisory duties is set forth in thesupervisory frameworkand thesupervisory vision.
Context and tasks
The Amsterdam University of the Arts (AHK) is currently in a phase of further development in which administrative stability, cohesion among the academies, and strategic positioning are central priorities. TheStrategic Plan 2024–2029focuses on areas such as sustainability, inclusion and social safety, interdisciplinarity, and digitalization. The new member is expected to contribute to administrative stability and strategic reflection, strengthen the connection between oversight, the organization, students, and the cultural sector, and support the Executive Board through critical and constructive oversight.
Who are we looking for?
The ideal candidate:
- has administrative experience in the cultural sector;
- has a substantive affinity with one or more disciplines within the AHK;
- brings a relevant network to the table and understands the dynamics of the cultural sector;
- has experience with organizational development and change initiatives.
We are looking for someone who can provide perspective and wisdom, and who works in a collaborative and sensitive manner.
Composition and diversity
The board strives for a balanced and diverse membership. Candidates who contribute to diversity in terms of background, perspective, and lived experience are strongly encouraged to apply.
Appointment, Compensation, and Time Allocation
A Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) is part of the appointment process and is a prerequisite for appointment. The appointment is for a term of four years, with the possibility of one reappointment. The board meets four to six times a year, in addition to committee work. Attendance at other events is highly appreciated. Members are expected to have sufficient time available to become more actively involved in the organization, if necessary. The annual compensation for members of the supervisory board is €10,505.
Interested?
The Board of Trustees of the Amsterdam University of the Arts is being assisted in this process by the executive search firm Colourful People. You can find a detailed job description here. For more information about the Supervisory Board, the organization, or the procedure, please contact Naima Azough, a partner at Colourful People, at (06-43449717) or n.azough@colourfulpeople.nl. (Naima Azough will be abroad from April 17 to 29, so please contact her via WhatsApp or Signal.)You can express your interest byuploadingyour cover letter and resume (in PDF format)no later than Tuesday, May 5, 2026, via the application form on the Colourful People website. A confirmation email will follow upon receipt of your application. If you do not receive this confirmation, please contact Naima Azough via WhatsApp as soon as possible.
