Business Manager

The Amsterdam Bostheater is one of the most unique cultural venues in the Amsterdam metropolitan area; a magical open-air stage nestled in the woods, with a program ranging from theater to concerts, film, and children’s performances. It is a place where art, nature, and the public come together—accessible, welcoming, and with a distinct character all its own.

Over the past ten years, Amsterdam’s Bostheater has grown from a small-scale summer venue with approximately 40 events and 25,000 visitors into a financially sound organization with over 220 events and more than 85,000 visitors each summer. The internal organization is growing alongside this expansion and is now entering a new phase of development and professionalization.

Due to the departure of our current business manager, we are seeking a collaborative, financially savvy, and strategically minded business manager who, together with the executive director, will lead the organization and help us achieve our goals for the coming years.

The Amsterdam Bostheater receives regular subsidies from the municipalities of Amsterdam and Amstelveen.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Operations Manager is primarily responsible for day-to-day operations, finances, fundraising, and human resources. Together with the Executive Director, you are responsible for the organization’s strategic development. In this role, you report to the Executive Director.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Management and Fundraising

• Preparing and monitoring budgets, financial statements, and financial reports
• Responsible for submitting grant and funding applications
• Developing additional financing strategies
• Managing a financial administration staff member

HR & Personnel Policy

• Professionalization of HR processes, supported by an external HR consultant
• Annual plans and performance cycle
• Sustainable employability, team development, and role allocation in a growing organization

Legal and Contractual Management

• Drafting and managing contracts with employees, independent contractors, performers, and partners
• Ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, including the GDPR, the Working Conditions Act, and cultural codes (Cultural Governance Code, Fair Practice Code)

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability

• Monitoring the (financial) progress of projects, including evaluation and reporting
• Keep the board and the Supervisory Board informed of the financial progress of projects
• Identifying risks and opportunities early on and anticipating them

WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Someone who enjoys building things together, brings clarity to a multifaceted organization, and knows how to engage and inspire people. You understand the language of both cultural leaders and administrators and funding organizations. And you’re able to make data-driven decisions.

YOU ARE

• Connecting, approachable, and skilled in communication
• Financially savvy and a strategic thinker
• Decisive, assertive, and meticulous
• A coaching leader who inspires confidence
• Stress-resistant in a dynamic, seasonal organization

YOU HAVE

• HBO+/university level
• Experience in the cultural sector or similar organizations
• Experience with budgeting, operations management, and team leadership
• Experience working with public stakeholders (municipalities, foundations) is a plus

WE OFFER

• A unique, inspiring workplace in the heart of the Amsterdamse Bos
• A close-knit, dedicated team with an informal work culture
• Room to grow, improve, and become more professional
• A major impact on the future of one of the most unique theaters in the Netherlands
• An organization where hospitality, accessibility, and collaboration are core values
• A salary in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Theater & Dance
• A one-year contract with the intention of permanent employment

If this profile sounds like you, please send your cover letter, resume, and one or more relevant references to vacature@bostheater.nl by January 17, 2026.

The first round of interviews will take place on January 26 and 28, 2026. The process will consist of several rounds of interviews.

If you have any questions about the position or the application process, please contact Ingejan Ligthart Schenk at ingejan@bostheater.nl