The General Education Union is seeking an experienced strategic advisor to shape our employment policy. The key challenge of this role is to make an impact—in politics, in education, and across public opinion—through leading-edge policies on employment conditions. Our primary objectives are to ensure that our teaching staff are qualified, competent, and adequately compensated.
What does the job entail?
You will shape and define the AOb’s policy on employment conditions. You will do this for all sectors of education and with regard to all positions in education and research. This means you will advise, identify issues, set the agenda, and—where appropriate—take the lead and foster connections, both internally and externally. In this way, you will work toward concrete improvements in areas such as workload, pay, and key investments in education. You serve as a go-to resource, so you ensure you have broad knowledge and stay up to date on current events. A specific topic within education is funding; lump-sum financing is once again under discussion.
You will actively seek input and collaboration with (potential) members. Using this input, along with your own knowledge and that of your colleagues, you will develop policies and activities. You will advise the chair and the members of the executive committee. You will also work closely with fellow policy officers, sector directors, the spokesperson, and the lobbyist. Externally, you will participate in and represent the AOb in administrative consultations, serve as an advisor, and provide support during negotiations. You will maintain contacts with educational organizations, political parties, academic institutions, and other unions.
What kind of candidate are we looking for?
You have:
- Experience in translating legislation and policy proposals into financial analyses
- Enjoy presenting results and providing advice on them (in person, in writing, and online)
- Experience in policy and consulting
- Well-developed analytical skills and political acumen
- A background as an economist, business administrator, controller, public administration specialist, social geographer, or, for example, an HR expert in the labor market and employment conditions with financial expertise
- Familiarity with laws and regulations relevant to the teachers' union
And ideally, you have:
- Knowledge of (the funding of) education
- Experience with cross-sectoral policy documents
- Experience in the field of social security
You bring:
- Enthusiasm for the content; you enjoy working toward the best possible result
- You can combine your energy with an understanding of organizational dynamics
- You can communicate effectively in a variety of situations
- You are a unifying force internally, can identify opportunities externally, and bridge the micro and macro levels
The organization
With approximately 82,000 members, the AOb is the largest trade union in the Netherlands across all sectors of education. The AOb is affiliated with the FNV and aims to represent the interests of everyone working in education, both in terms of educational content and employment conditions. In addition to being an advocate for its members, the AOb also positions itself as a professional organization. For more information, visit www.aob.nl
You will be part of the Policy Subdivision, which falls under Collective Advocacy. Other subdivisions within CB include: Employee Participation and Field Services.
What do we offer?
- A challenging job with opportunities for rapid professional growth, an interesting network, and a stimulating work environment
- A high degree of freedom and independence
- The AOb is home to many enthusiastic colleagues who will make you feel welcome right away
- A one-year contract with the possibility of a permanent position. We are considering a 4-day workweek, but we’d be happy to discuss your preferences
- The salary ranges from a minimum of €4,723 to a maximum of €6,370 gross per month (scale IX) for full-time employment (35 hours). In addition, there is an 8.3% vacation allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
- Flexibility, generous leave, and a schedule that aligns with the academic calendar contribute to a healthy work-life balance. You will be provided with a phone and laptop, and furniture will be loaned to you for your home office. The pension plan is administered by the Pensioenfonds Zorg & Welzijn; the employer pays 75% of the premium. We also offer excellent educational support.
Would you like to comment?
The AOb is working with the executive search firm Colourful People on the recruitment and selection process. Are you interested in this position? If so, please apply via the Colourful People website. For more information about the organization and the position, please contact Monique Spaansen, a partner at Colourful People (M.Spaansen@colourfulpeople.nl). You can express your interest by submitting a cover letter and resume via the Colourful People website by November 7. Interviews with the committee will be held on the afternoons of November 23 and 28.The goal is to have the candidate start as soon as possible.
