Regional Director

Did you know that there are over 700,000 recreational anglers in the Netherlands who are members of an angling club? And that, after soccer, recreational fishing is the second-largest sports federation in the Netherlands? This makes fishing one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Netherlands. Relaxing in nature and the thrill of catching a (big) fish make for a perfect combination. Sportvisserij MidWest Nederland represents the interests of over 165,000 anglers who are members of 100 fishing clubs. With a professional staff, a board of directors, and many volunteers, they are dedicated to supporting these anglers and clubs. The federation is affiliated with Sportvisserij Nederland, which is a member of NOC*NSF. Together with the six other federations and Sportvisserij Nederland, we form the leading knowledge center for fishing and angling. For our MidWest region, we are seeking a regional director who can contribute to the further development of our organization and serve as a dedicated leader for the team.

What does the job entail?

Recreational fishing touches on topics such as nature, ecology, sports, well-being, recreation, and the economy. As Regional Director of Sportvisserij MidWest Nederland, you will be responsible for achieving the organization’s objectives, in collaboration with the staff and the board of Sportvisserij MidWest Nederland, and under the supervision of the Director of Sportvisserij Nederland. In addition to developing a vision, setting the course, and ensuring the organization’s continuity, the role involves the comprehensive management of the entire operational organization in Heiloo. You will lead a team of fifteen employees, ranging from advisors and enforcement and youth coordinators to administrative staff. You will ensure optimal collaboration within the organization and with colleagues from other federations and Sportvisserij Nederland. You will work with partners such as municipalities, Rijkswaterstaat, provinces, and nature organizations. Would you like to learn more about the MidWest region? Then visit: Sportvisserij MidWest website.

What's available so far?

In recent years, there has been discussion about designing a new organizational structure. Scenarios have been developed to this end, which will allow us to continue working on professionalizing governance and work processes, as well as fostering greater cooperation among the federations. The MidWest Region is one of the largest federations and is well-positioned to take the lead in this effort.

A strategic plan has been developed for the MidWest region through 2025, outlining the following key policy areas: strengthening associations and improving water and fish stock management, promoting advocacy, and optimizing the service organization. The interim manager recently appointed several new colleagues to the team. Due to leadership changes, there is a need for a regional director who intends to continue building and developing this team in a sustainable manner and to work together with enthusiasm toward achieving the objectives.

Diversity?

Recreational fishing is an inclusive sport. We are committed to making it accessible to everyone. Since 2021, Sportvisserij Nederland and all federations have been working together toward the shared goal of becoming more diverse and inclusive. We warmly invite candidates who wish to contribute to this effort as a regional director to apply.

What kind of candidate are we looking for?

You are an experienced manager who can contribute to the development of a national organization while keeping the region’s interests in mind.

You will bring:

• Your own vision. You support the objectives of the Angling Association
• Strategic acumen and experience in translating this into plans, budgets, and annual reports
• Experience in the comprehensive management of an organization, with a familiarity with strategic management and process design
• Experience in organizational and employee development
• Enthusiasm for networking and connecting internal and external partners
• Experience with organizations and working with volunteers
• Knowledge of and experience with social and/or political-administrative contexts
• Academic level of work and thinking
• Willingness to work in the evenings, for example at club meetings
• An interest in water, sport fishing, nature, or ecology

Your personal qualities are:

• Clear and engaging in communication, open and transparent
• You work well with others and help create a positive atmosphere
• You can make clear choices without losing touch
• You encourage initiative, foster a culture of trust, and promote (team) learning and development

What do we offer?

• A position in pay grade 13 (0.8–1.0 FTE) under the Sport Fishing Collective Bargaining Agreement (min. €4,551–max. €6,786 gross per month).
• A one-year contract with the possibility of permanent employment
• Work in a dynamic organization with enthusiastic professionals who are deeply committed
• Attractive benefits, such as a work-from-home policy, opportunities for professional development, and a competitive pension plan
• Flexible working hours and the option to work remotely

Would you like to comment?

Sportvisserij MidWest Nederland is working with the executive search firm Colourful People for recruitment and selection. For more information about the organization and the position, please contact Monique Spaansen, a partner at Colourful People (M.Spaansen@colourfulpeople.nl). Are you interested in this position? If so, please apply for this vacancy via the Colourful People website by January 27 with a cover letter and resume. Interviews with the selection committee are scheduled for mid-February, with the goal of having the regional director start as soon as possible.