Job Title: Senior Environmental Manager (Strategic Thinker)
Focus Area: Twente region (rural/agricultural area)

Role summary
We are looking for a Senior Environmental Manager with strong strategic thinking skills. You will work with colleagues to translate strategy into concrete, collaborative action.

You act as primus inter pares – providing direction, monitoring progress, and making adjustments where needed. The ultimate goal is to ensure continuity of drinking water supply from available sources and infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

Translate regional challenges into a strategic approach
Coordinate and guide implementation together with team members
Actively collaborate with municipalities, provincial authorities, and regional partners
Serve as a strategic advisor and representative
Connect themes such as climate adaptation, sanitation, and drinking water
Identify interdependencies and effects within the area
Monitor progress and adjust processes when necessary

What you bring (requirements)

Minimum 10 years of experience as an Environmental Manager in area-based processes
Minimum 5 years of experience with area-based processes in rural/agricultural settings
Proven experience in:
- Translating challenges into strategy and action plans
- Acting as primus inter pares (providing direction without hierarchical authority)
- Monitoring and adjusting processes
Minimum 5 years of experience as a representative/negotiator for a (semi-)public authority
Experience in:
- Representing interests in complex area-based processes
- Timely acquisition of internal mandate/decision authority
Solid knowledge of environmental law (Omgevingswet) and spatial planning
Ability to understand and connect administrative processes and collaborative relationships

Desired competencies

Strong strategic thinking
Sensitivity to agricultural contexts and stakeholders
Strong collaboration skills
Environmentally aware and connecting
Analytical with an eye for systemic coherence
Strong communication skills and administrative sensitivity