Esther van Berkel appointed as Managing Director of the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology
On March 1, 2024, Esther van Berkel will become the new Managing Director of the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology. She succeeds Ada van der Velden-Westervelt, who will start her well-deserved retirement on April 1, 2024.
Esther van Berkel (1964) has gained extensive experience in management roles at Radboud University Nijmegen, serving as Head of the Department of Internal and External Communication and as Director of Studies at the Language Institute Regina Coeli. Currently, she is an entrepreneur and owner of Tipping Icebergs, a consultancy firm.
Van Berkel: "Over fifteen years ago, I left Radboud University to gain experience in the dynamics of a commercial organization. At Regina Coeli, I immensely enjoyed learning and was granted the opportunity to develop myself. However, what I started to miss was the inherent depth and substantive nature of decision-making processes and choices, within open communication, collaboration, and liaising with the various layers of an organization. I am convinced that this approach leads to sustainable decisions, forming a solid foundation for the quick decisions that often need to be made. Upon leaving Nijmegen, I was told that I would eventually return to a university because academia suits me well. I am pleased that the Tilburg School of Catholic Theology, Tilburg University, and I have found each other, and I look forward to implementing the plans outlined in the School’s and the university’s strategies, as well as all the other things that will come our way."
Karim Schelkens (Dean TST) commented: "The Tilburg/Utrecht School of Theology warmly welcomes Esther as its new Director, who, with her unique approach, can continue the dynamic initiatives of our retiring Director. Esther's experience with complex organizations, open communication, and a pronounced affinity for the academic world will undoubtedly contribute to further establishing the School in the coming period, both in the Dutch context of philosophical institutions and in collaboration with Tilburg University’s other Schools. As a faculty community, we are looking forward to fruitful collaboration."