About TU/e

In service to society, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) stands for excellence in academic research, education, innovation, and impact, contributing to various United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

At the heart of TU/e is an inspiring, open, diverse, and tight-knit international community of talented and bright people; with close to 13,000 students and 7,000 staff and countless networks of organisational and individual partners in the region and beyond.

The most recent mid-term review (2022) of TU/e's current strategic plan shows solid results and provides a strong foundation of confidence that the plan's ambitions will be realised and brought to fruition (TU/e institutional plan 2020-2025).

One of the main challenges ahead is the growth of the university with increased numbers of students and staff. This is driven by the exponential growth of the Eindhoven Brainport region with increased demands for various talents.

The Supervisory Board of TU/e is looking to appoint a new President of the Executive Board.

About the role

The Executive Board (EB) of TU/e forms a cohesive, trust-based team which operates on a shared vision, shared values and an integrative and enabling approach. The President chairs the EB and ensures that the Board functions in a collegial way and that decisions are taken by consent.

The President is responsible for the overall definition and implementation of the vision, mission and strategy of the university and is accountable to the Supervisory Board. The preparation of the strategic decision-making takes place in the University Consultative Council, which is composed of the Deans of the nine departments, the Dean of the bachelor college, and the Dean of the graduate school and is chaired by the President.

The President further represents TU/e at regional, national, and international level, notably towards partners in business, government, and other knowledge institutions. This with the aim of strengthening the reputation of TU/e based on its unique selling point, resulting in a top-notch academic organisation located at the heart of one of the world's most vibrant innovation ecosystems, while maintaining its role of educating talents and pursuing truth through high-quality research.

The President is a driving force for sustainability as an important theme throughout TU/e's core activities and operations. S/he is the final safeguard for a safe, ethical, and inclusive study and work environment at all levels of TU/e and for compliance with internal and external regulations, guidelines, and agreements.

The President ensures close relations with alumni as important members of the TU/e community, enabling long-term cooperation in education, research and/or valorisation. S/he is responsible for the definition of a systematic approach aimed at increasing the revenues from 3rd and 4th tier funding, including the University Fund.

The current division of portfolios within the EB can be re-examined once the new President has been appointed.

Personal characteristics

The successful candidate is a seasoned administrator featuring inspirational self-awareness, empathic skills, a strategic mindset, excellent decision-making, and communication skills in all walks of life. S/he is an empathic leader, friendly, approachable, and reflective. A team player, capable of working well with colleagues of the Executive Board, and with other key players in the organisation. The President is able to connect with the Eindhoven Brainport region and beyond. S/he has strong affinity with education, research, and valorisation.

A more extensive job profile including the specific requirements for the role can be found in the Appointment Details Brochure.

Leadership

The President is an authentic, approachable, and connecting leader with natural gravitas, who will guide TU/e in formulating and realising its strategic ambitions. S/he is able to connect with all parts of the university and actively embraces a culture of diversity and inclusion in which everyone is able to thrive and feels at home. The President is an inspiring person, a figurehead of the TU/e organisation, both internally and externally. S/he radiates 'TU/e pride' and the TU/e can proudly stand behind its President. The President creates a safe environment that enables everyone to thrive, and continuously seeks opportunities for improvement. The President has exemplary role in bringing complex situations up for discussion, bridging conflicting differences and encouraging dialogue within the academy. The President leads and unites the organisation to make strategic choices and makes sure that these are translated into concrete actions.

Remuneration: The position is valued according to the Standards for Remuneration Act (Wet Normering Topinkomens).

An executive search exercise is being undertaken by Perrett Laver to support the Selection Committee of TU/e in the discharge of its duties, i.e. identifying the widest possible field of candidates as well as assisting in the assessment of candidates against the requirements of the role. Applications should consist of a cover letter addressing motivation and suitability against the person specification and a full curriculum vitae.

Perrett Laver may be contacted for informal enquiries and questions at +31 (0) 20 240 4370 or by emailing Tiziano Sartor (tiziano.sartor@perrettlaver.com). Applications can be uploaded at https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies/, quoting reference 7376. The closing date for applications is at 9:00am CEST on Friday, 13th September 2024.

Applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee in late September and longlisted candidates will be invited to meet with Perrett Laver in early October. Shortlisted candidates will be selected by the Selection Committee and invited to formal interviews in late October. Selection and negotiations with the preferred candidate will take place thereafter.