Managing Director

Ref: 6774

The European Fine Art Foundation (TEFAF)

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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For an initial conversation please contact:

Norbert Lieftink

Research Associate

t: +31(0)20 24 04 378

e: norbert.lieftink@perrettlaver.com

Primary Practice Group: Arts, Culture and Sports

Salary & Benefits: Competitive

Closing Date: 29/09/2023

The European Fine Art Foundation (TEFAF)

Appointment of Managing Director 

Office: Amsterdam. The MD operates a minimum of three days per week from the head office.

TEFAF (The European Fine Art Foundation) is widely regarded as the world's pre-eminent organisation for fine art, antiques, and design. Attached to two renowned global art fairs, the foundation was established "by art dealers, for art dealers," giving it a uniquely dealer-focused character. TEFAF hosts two international fairs: - TEFAF Maastricht annually in March, which covers 7,000 years of art history, and TEFAF New York, which focuses on modern and contemporary art and design and takes place annually in May.

As Managing Director (MD) of TEFAF, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing the organisation's overarching vision and strategy. Working closely with both the TEFAF Team and the Executive Committee, you will oversee a broad spectrum of operational and managerial tasks. Your principal objective will be to ensure the financial stability and organisational well-being of TEFAF, for which you will be directly accountable to the Executive Committee. The culture and modus operandi within the organisation will be one of collaboration and shared responsibilities, requiring the MD to have a nuanced understanding of the unique dynamics and areas of expertise among the members of the Executive Committee, its President, and the support organisation's specialists.

The ideal candidate will possess an entrepreneurial mindset and a track record of success in senior managerial roles, with extensive experience in business administration, specifically in profit and loss management, governance, and finance. Your leadership style will be inspirational, supportive, and facilitative, with skills in staff management, team cohesion, cultural stewardship, and operational efficiency.

As a highly visible figure, the MD will lend credibility to TEFAF both internally and externally. Your skill set should include excellent communication skills, accompanied by diplomatic finesse and the ability to build relationships across a wide array of stakeholders. Your role will be instrumental in establishing and maintaining trust within the TEFAF community and beyond, thereby solidifying the organisation's esteemed reputation.

Although you will benefit from the comprehensive expertise and wide-ranging networks of our Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and high-profile advisors, a functional knowledge of the global art market and its interconnected ecosystem will be advantageous.

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification. For further details, including job description, person specification and information on how to apply, please see https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies/quoting reference 6774.

The deadline for applications is Friday 29th September at 09:00 CEST.

For more information on the role, please contact Norbert Lieftink at norbert.lieftink@perrettlaver.com.

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