THE POSITION

The HR Chief of Staff acts as a strategic partner to the CPO and the HR Management Team (HRMT) and will be based in Rotterdam. This role is responsible for coordinating, monitoring, and accelerating the execution of the HR strategy across Van Oord. The Chief of Staff ensures alignment across HR disciplines, safeguards governance and decision-making, and enhances the impact of the HRMT through structure, oversight, and strategic support.

You work closely with the CPO, HR Management Team, business leaders, team leads, and the HR Centers of Expertise (CoEs) and HR Operations. As a connecting link, you ensure alignment and progress on strategic HR priorities. You bring structure to programs and projects that contribute to the People Strategy and translate them into concrete actions and results.

YOUR IMPACT 

• Strategic Support to CPO and HRMT: Co-creates and monitors the HR strategic roadmap. Ensures prioritization, decision-making, and follow-up on strategic HR themes.
• Governance & Decision-Making: Facilitates HRMT meetings, monitors decisions, and ensures transparent follow-up. Safeguards governance and structure in HR-wide programs.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Connects HR Business Partners, Centers of Expertise (CoEs), and HR Operations. Promotes synergy and collaboration across HR disciplines.
• Representation & Continuity: Represents the CPO or HRMT members in strategic meetings. Ensures continuity and consistency in decision-making and execution.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Utilizes HR data and analytics to monitor progress, measure impact, and support decision-making.
• Change & Implementation: Leads HR-wide change programs. Ensures implementation strength and embedding of strategic initiatives.

ROLE CONTEXT

You are responsible for coordinating strategic HR themes such as leadership development, strategic workforce planning, organizational development, performance management, engagement, diversity & inclusion, and change management. You ensure accurate HR administration within your scope and collaborate closely with HR Services. You report functionally and hierarchically to the Chief People Officer. 
 
 You promote the application of the HR operating model and ensure that employees and managers feel supported by the HR organization. You use HR data and people analytics to generate insights, support decision-making, and drive continuous improvement.

This role operates within an international, complex HR organization with over 130 FTE. The Chief of Staff works closely with HR Directors, HR Business Partners, CoEs, and external stakeholders. The role is pivotal in strengthening the HR Operating Model and realizing Van Oord’s People Strategy.

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for an HR Chief of Staff who brings clarity and structure to complex challenges and thrive in coordinating cross-functional efforts. You understand the human dynamics behind business transformation and are comfortable navigating ambiguity and facilitating alignment. You are hands-on, resilient, and ready to drive strategic HR initiatives that make a measurable impact. 

You excel at connecting people, processes, and priorities, ensuring that strategic HR programs are not only well-designed but also effectively implemented. You are skilled at managing multiple stakeholders, balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. With a strong sense of ownership, you proactively identify opportunities for improvement and help the HR leadership team stay focused, aligned, and accountable.

You thrive in a role where you don’t lead a department yourself, but instead strengthen the effectiveness and collaboration of a leadership team. You enjoy bringing structure to complexity and turning strategy into action. You are comfortable working in an international context and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders.

• 15+ years of experience in a complex, international environment, including several years in strategic or leadership roles.
• Strong business acumen and the ability to connect people, strategy, and execution are essential. 
• Proven ability to support senior leadership teams and facilitate governance and decision-making processes. 
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage complexity and multiple priorities in a dynamic setting. 
• A collaborative, structured, and decisive approach to work, with a focus on outcomes. 
• Affinity with people-related topics such as talent development, employee engagement, culture, and change management.
• Experience with program and change management in an international matrix organization.

WE OFFER

At Van Oord, you’ll contribute to our mission: building a better world for future generations. 
We offer:

• A key role within Van Oord’s HR team, with direct impact on our strategic direction
• Competitive salary based on experience and responsibilities.
• Company Car. 
• Fixed expense allowance.
• Home office allowance (€2.40/day).
• 32 leave days per year.
• Variable bonus.
• Pension scheme.
• Optional collective health insurance.
• Flexible hybrid working policy (up to 2 days/week from home).
• Extensive learning and development opportunities, including GoodHabitz online courses.
• Access to communities like Young Van Oord, Van Oord Women, and the staff association.
• Participation in sports and social events (e.g. winter sports, sailing weekends, cycling tours).