Help shape the future of global water education.

Water is fundamental to sustainable development, human wellbeing and economic prosperity. As climate change, population growth and urbanisation place increasing pressure on water resources, the need for knowledge, innovation and international collaboration has never been greater.

IHE Delft Institute for Water Education plays a unique role in addressing these global challenges. As the world's largest international graduate water education institute, operating under the auspices of UNESCO, IHE Delft combines education, research and capacity development to strengthen the capacity of people, institutions and countries to manage water sustainably. Since 1957, the Institute has educated more than 25,000 professionals from over 190 countries, creating one of the world's most influential international networks of water professionals.

IHE Delft is now seeking an outstanding Rector to lead the Institute through its next phase of development. Working alongside the Rectorate/Managing Board, the Governing Board, staff, students, alumni and international partners, the Rector will provide strategic leadership, represent the Institute internationally and ensure that IHE Delft continues to deliver academic excellence and global impact. The successful candidate will guide the Institute as it strengthens its international position, diversifies its funding base and responds to an evolving higher education and development landscape.

The Profile

The successful candidate will bring:

1. An internationally recognised academic profile, with a PhD and the standing to lead a globally respected institute.
2. Significant senior leadership experience in higher education, research, international organisations or another complex, mission-driven environment.
3. A proven ability to provide strategic leadership, lead organisational development and work effectively with governing boards and diverse stakeholder communities.
4. Demonstrated success in building international partnerships and representing an organisation at the highest levels.
5. The ability to combine academic credibility with organisational leadership, balancing collaboration with decisiveness and strategic vision with effective implementation.
6. A strong commitment to IHE Delft's mission of strengthening global capacity to address the world's water challenges through education, research and partnership.

IHE Delft is committed to building a diverse leadership team that reflects the global community it serves and welcomes applications from candidates from backgrounds that remain underrepresented in senior academic leadership.

How to apply

An executive search exercise is being undertaken by Perrett Laver to support IHE Delft. Perrett Laver may be contacted for informal enquiries and questions about the post on +31 (0)20 240 4379 or via email to erik.hafner@perrettlaver.com.

Applications should consist of a cover letter stating the candidate’s motivation and a complete curriculum vitae. These can be uploaded at https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies, quoting reference 8580. The closing date for applications is 10:00 CEST on 17 August 2026.

Longlisted candidates will be invited to meet with Perrett Laver. Shortlisted candidates will be selected by the selection committee by the end of August; formal interviews will take place in September.