Paul Dirkse

Paul Dirkse is an experienced professional with a diverse background in leadership and organizational development across various sectors. Currently serving as Uitvoerend bestuurder at PROOLeiden-Leiderdorp since June 2023, Paul previously held the position of Kwartiermaker Sport en bewegen in aandachtswijken at ZonMw, where responsibilities included developing strategic plans to enhance sports participation in underprivileged areas. Paul's tenure as bestuurder at Stichting Leiden Bio Science Park focused on fostering collaboration among education, research, and business to position the campus as a top European bioscience hub. As Wethouder in the municipality of Leiden from 2016 to 2022, Paul oversaw crucial areas such as education, youth, sports, and sustainability, contributing to projects like the development of the Singelpark and the renovation of school infrastructure. Paul also has a strong entrepreneurial background, founding a startup and working as a self-employed change manager and advisor. Educational qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Management from Breda University of Applied Sciences and VWO from Bonaventura College.