The European Open Rivers Programme is looking for a new Chair for our Supervisory Board.
With a €42.5 million re-granting programme, we are funding obsolete dam removal projects across Europe, helping to restore free-flowing rivers and revitalizing ecosystems. This programme is based in the Netherlands and is managed by a small team of professionals. Now, we need a chair to guide our board and director toward even greater impact.
We’re seeking someone with:
- A passion for environmental stewardship
- A talent for mentorship and guiding teams
- A strategic vision, balanced with practical decision-making
- A commitment to integrity and transparency
About the Supervisory Board
Members of the Supervisory Board are expected to monitor the actions and policy crafted by the Executive Director of the organisation and to assess general operations. They should be familiar with all aspects of the organisation and will have the authority to dismiss the Executive Director.
The main responsibilities of the Supervisory Board are to:
Ensure that the programme’s mission is discharged according to the criteria agreed with Arcadia.
Oversee the quality implementation and strategic direction of the programme and operational risks.
Approve an annual workplan and budget submitted by the Executive Director, which builds on the budget and activities outlined in the proposal with Arcadia.
Appoint an Executive Director and oversee their activities.
Approve, comment or reject the proposal of the Executive Director on grants based on the recommendations made by a Grant Selection Panel.
Approve annual accounts and oversee the structure and performance of financial risk management and control systems.
Evaluate the progress of the programme at regular intervals.
Represent the programme in situations where a conflict of interest prevents the Executive Director from carrying out their duties in line with the interests of the programme.
Offer strategic advice to the Executive Director or draw attention to current issues affecting the organisation’s viability or progress.
Interested?
Download the full role profile here.
For more information or application to the role, please contact the current Chair of the programme, Arjan Berkhuysen, via LinkedIn or send an email to applications@openrivers.eu.

