Job vacancy: Joint Managing Director

Imagine a place where millions of images, stories and information about Netherlandish art are brought together in a unique collection of picture documentation, archives and an outstanding library. A place that can be visited every day, physically or digitally, by researchers, museum staff, artists and art enthusiasts from all over the world, in search of new perspectives. This place exists – welcome to the RKD. The RKD knowledge institute can be visited in person in The Hague or consulted digitally. It is the starting point that enables individuals to conduct their own research into the fine arts of the Netherlands, set within an international perspective.


The RKD is about to enter an important new phase of its existence. In addition to relocating our institute, our carefully recently refined strategy will see us make two major changes: transitioning from a research to a knowledge institute, and an accelerated programme of digitisation. We are building an organisation that embraces innovation, is open to collaboration, continues to extend its provision of digital services and – using its pool of knowledge – supports data-driven research in the international art-historical field. 

To do this we are looking for a Joint Managing Director who will be one of the new two-person leadership team, alongside the current acting General Manager and Director. The two directors are to work in close cooperation and will be fully accountable, both individually and jointly, for managing the RKD. 

We are looking for

You are someone who thinks strategically and has an excellent grasp of complex developments in the field of art history, the cultural sector as well as the Digital Humanities, knowing how to shape them into practical steps for the RKD. You think from the outside in. You believe in working with others, in the power of networks and an organisation that can learn. Above all, you feel at home in a setting where art history, technology and data converge. 

You are an experienced leader who knows how to create a dynamic atmosphere. You inspire colleagues with your vision, you build on trust and enjoy working as a team with your Co-Director. You are curious and analytical and at the same time people-oriented; someone who can take colleagues with them in new directions, encouraging them to develop as art-historical professionals as well as experts in digital access.

What you will do

  • You will represent the RKD nationally and internationally, promoting it as the prime digital starting point   for art-historical research into the visual arts in the Netherlands.

  • You will be driving and promoting the digital transition, providing expertise in digital research methodologies and data-driven working.

    As a team:

  • The two of you will steer the core functions of the RKD: acquisition; organisation and development of the collection; public services, with support from Innovation & IT as well as Marketing & Communications.
  • You will build an organisation that is clearly defined, professional, guided by the needs of its users and focusing on the future.
  • You will ensure the strong and efficient running of the organisation: HR, finance, building management, IT and information management.
  • You will create a stimulating and safe working culture, leading by example.

What you bring

  • Preferably a PhD in art history.
  • Extensive experience of digital and computational applications within the subject area, together with a critical and creative vision of how art-historical research is influenced by digital technologies and artificial intelligence, in both conceptual and methodological terms, nationally and internationally.
  • Knowledge of developments in academic research, cultural heritage as well as the library and archive sector.
  • Substantial experience in a strategic leadership role (with overall organisational responsibility).
  • A strategic outlook and inspiring leadership style.
  • A relevant international network.
  • Experience of interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Proficient command of Dutch and English. 
     

What we offer

Working at the RKD means an environment in which curiosity, expertise and innovation are central. You will have the opportunity to lead an iconic institution into the future – with impact on the subject of art history nationally and internationally. The salary for this post is on scale 15 of the Museum CAO (Collective Labour Agreement). The appointment will be initially for one year, with the possibility of a permanent contract. 

In addition we offer:

  • A dynamic role in a knowledge institute that is constantly evolving.
  • A close-knit team ready to be inspired by you and your Co-Director.
  • A place where ideas are welcome and that encourages professional and personal development.
  • Excellent additional working benefits: a good pension scheme, full reimbursement of public transport costs over 5 km (up to a maximum of €375.70), facilities for home working, holiday (8%) and annual (3.4%) bonuses.
  • The possibility of hybrid working.
  • Discount on health insurance with certain providers.
  • The RKD has institutional membership of ICOM which gives staff free access to virtually every museum in the world.
  • A highly active staff association and great colleagues.

Applications

Please take time to familiarise yourself with the RKD through our website www.rkd.nl. If interested, you can request the job description by email to pz@rkd.nl.

Are you ready to give new direction to the RKD at a time of digital and structural renewal? Then please send a cover letter together with your cv to pz@rkd.nl and put ‘Vacature Collega Directeur-Bestuurder’ in the subject box. Please address questions about the nature of the post to Elske van Amelsfort, Chair of the Supervisory Board or to Astrid Verheusen, Acting General Manager and Director. Both can be reached at deelen@rkd.nl.

The deadline for applications is 11 January 2026. First interviews will be held in the second half of January.

The RKD firmly believes that diversity of background and experience benefits our institute. We are therefore building a team that is representative of society, with staff from different backgrounds and with complementary skills. We encourage applications from all who feel that they fit the job profile.

Unsolicited job applications in response to this advertisement will not be considered.