What's your next career step?

I am PhD I am Postdoc I am Lecturer I am Manager I am OBP

Are you ready for a new job?

We’re here to support you to:

Identify your strengths and personal profile
Navigate the job market with confidence
Expand your professional network
Apply effectively and prepare for interviews

Want to grow in your current role?

If you're looking to deepen your impact or boost your wellbeing, we offer guidance in:

Personal leadership and self-awareness
Competency assessment and skill development
Career planning conversations
Balancing workload and vitality

Why work with us?

Our coaches and trainers are seasoned professionals in career development and vitality.

We understand the academic world—its structure, challenges, and culture.

We tailor our support to your role, whether you’re academic staff, support staff, or in a leadership position.

We have extensive experience across all UvA faculties and partner institutions.

What we offer

Workshops

Hands-on and goal-oriented, designed to strengthen your career skills

Training

In-depth programmes focused on building knowledge, attitude, and professional behaviour

Coaching

One-on-one career coaching tailored to your personal development journey

“I never thought I would end up working outside of science.”

Meet our coaches and trainers

Have a question for one of our coaches or trainers?
Feel free to get in touch: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Director

Ruerdje van Mierlo

"Innovation and quality are my drivers. Regarding career development, I say: self-direction is indispensable"
Career coach and trainer

Sieta Keizer

‘I focus on ownership, self-knowledge, and proactivity—supported by creativity, humor, an open mind, and the ability to see through patterns and deeper layers.‘
Career coach and trainer

Leon Bos

‘The best thing about career coaching is the moment when candidates discover what they already have to offer—and gain a clear view of their next step.‘
Career coach and trainer (flex)

Jacqueline Smits

‘My approach is pragmatic, positive, stimulating, and results-oriented. I help you enjoy the process of finding a suitable new job or achieving a healthy work-life balance.‘
Career coach and trainer

Channah van Dootingh

‘I combine genuine commitment with quick analysis and creative solutions. My approach is practical and action-oriented.’
Career coach and trainer

Marjolein Niehe

‘I always see talent and potential in you. With practical tools and a touch of humour to keep things light, I help you take the next steps with confidence, even when it comes to management and leadership.‘
Career coach and trainer

Simone Schulp

‘What's holding you back? I'll free you up and get you moving toward new work, toward yourself, and toward what you want to do in life and from your heart.’
Career coach and trainer

Josta Vencken

‘I help you translate opportunities into concrete solutions, by listening sharply, asking focused questions and thinking along from an innovative perspective.’
Business operations and finance

Bianca Klupper

Our rock when it comes to planning, organization, and finances. Knows almost everything and comes up with practical and effective solutions.
Office manager

Ilse Vlassak

Experienced office manager who likes to roll up her sleeves. Friendly, to-the-point, and results-oriented, she assists our candidates and clients.
Trainer and career coach (flex)

Rob Smits

‘Not just talking, but above all practicing and pushing boundaries. For a mix of Amsterdam guts and Zaandam pragmatism, I'm the person to turn to.’
Career coach and trainer (flex)

Mervyn Nankoe

‘I create a safe space where you learn to trust yourself and let your authentic colors shine.’