Chairperson

About the ABU

The ABU is the leading trade association for companies that connect people with work, offering a wide range of services. We have been in existence for nearly 65 years and represent over 500 members who, together, help hundreds of thousands of people find good jobs every year. The ABU stands for well-organized (flexible) work, with a focus on the interests of members, workers, clients, and society. We are drivers of innovation and are committed to improving the market—for our workers, our clients, and, of course, our members. With a strong presence in public debate, at collective bargaining and other policy-making tables, and in The Hague and Brussels, we are an authoritative voice in the labor market. As an association, we combine entrepreneurship with social responsibility. 

Course 2030

The ABU has defined its strategic direction for 2030 around three pillars: promotinggood work, broadening thescope of its services, andstrengthening the associationas a network of innovative, socially engaged entrepreneurs. In a time of social change, rapid technological advancement, and complex legislation, we at the ABU aim to lead the way, playing a strong, visible, and unifying role. 

Our mission

ABU is working to create a better market with more room for sound, responsible, and innovative entrepreneurship. That (labor) market is constantly evolving. We are committed to good work for all workers, regardless of contract type or background. That means: investing in access to work for everyone who is able and willing to work, in valuable flexibility, sustainable careers, dignified labor migration, digital innovation, and strict quality standards for our members. At the same time, we take a stand in the public debate. We seek dialogue on regulations, advocate for better oversight of unscrupulous providers, and work to build a realistic and fair image of our sector. In doing so, we proactively seek collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders in our community. Because good entrepreneurship deserves support, not stigma. That is where our value lies—and our challenge.

Our organization

The ABU is an association whose highest governing body is the General Assembly. The Board of Directors, composed of member representatives, serves as a strategic overseer and policy-maker. The chairperson is independent and leads the board, represents the association externally, and, together with the executive team, serves as the public face of the ABU. The operational organization consists of 32 professionals. The board monitors the direction and framework of the organization and strengthens support among members and stakeholders.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a politically astute leader who can bridge the gap between quality work and entrepreneurship and who will champion our members with courage and conviction. 

Our members are entrepreneurs with a mission. They believe in quality work and corporate social responsibility. At the same time, they are facing a demanding reality: rising costs, unpredictable legislation, increasing regulatory pressure, and an industry where unscrupulous players set the tone. We are looking for a chairperson who does not shy away from this tension, but rather acknowledges, addresses, and bridges it. Someone who highlights the difference between our members and the bottom of the market. Who advocates for better enforcement and opposes unnecessary rules. Who creates space to do business with pride, enjoyment, and results. 

We are looking for a chairperson who can articulate our members’ perspective on decent work with complete conviction, both internally and externally. A connector with natural authority and persuasiveness, who can lead discussions with empathy, insight, and humor—even when they are complex or sensitive—and who is closely connected to our members. The chairperson we are looking for will bring energy to our association. We are looking for someone who drives and challenges. Someone who speaks their mind and brings the “outside in.” Someone with strong communication skills who feels at home among entrepreneurs and within political and administrative networks.  You will connect with and between our members. You will bring fresh perspective, breathing room, and energy to a board that seeks to further professionalize itself. You will know how to implement our widely supported roadmap toward 2030. 

The ideal chairperson meets the following qualifications:

Leadership

• You share our firm belief that work should be meaningful and rewarding, and you are committed to this cause with all your heart and soul; 

• You are able to connect with our members and embrace the great diversity among them, and use that to strengthen the association;

• You are an experienced, values-driven leader who brings persuasiveness and expertise to the role of board chair;  

• You are authentic, a good team player, and a good listener, with an openness to diverse perspectives;

• You have the courage to innovate without losing support;

• You are able to define and implement our new strategic direction for 2030;

• You bring a lighthearted spirit, humor, and personal attention to people; 

• You serve as a strategic sounding board for senior management and know how to challenge them in a constructive way.

Figurehead

• You are a leading figure in an association of members who are committed to quality work and an inclusive labor market;

• You speak the language of entrepreneurs, but also that of politics and society;

• You have a keen political sense and a relevant professional network;

• You help make our role in the labor market visible, up-to-date, and relevant;

• You are comfortable with the media, politics, and public speaking.

Your background and experience

• A track record in public administration with demonstrable results on complex social issues;

• ⁠Well-established network in The Hague’s political and administrative circles—a keen understanding of labor market dynamics;

• ⁠Natural leadership and the ability to build coalitions across diverse groups;

• ⁠Shapes public opinion and sets the course for the industry;

• ⁠Strategic thinker, strong communicator—combines vision and persuasiveness in every message.

What do we offer?

A visible, influential, and socially relevant role at a trade association at the heart of the labor market. You will work alongside an expert and dedicated team, focusing on both direction and collaboration. The role requires approximately 16–24 hours per week, to be determined in consultation, and will be appropriately compensated. The appointment is for a term of three years, with the possibility of extension for two additional terms. 

Procedure

The ABU is being assisted in this process by the executive search firm Colourful People. Interested candidates may contact Melek Usta, Managing Director at Colourful People, directly. You can reach her by email at m.usta@colourfulpeople.nl or by phone at +31 6 28 57 54 36. You can express your interest by uploading your cover letter and resumeno later than June 21via the application form on the website.

Important dates:

• Deadline for comments: June 21, 2025

• First round of ABU interviews: September 10 (afternoon/evening)

• Second round of interviews: September 18 (afternoon/evening)

• Proposed appointment by the General Meeting: December 2025