Managing director moves on

In the past year, Arena has taken a major leap in its organisational development, and now the managing director, Sanne Schim van der Loeff, has decided to move on to a new position. Sanne joined Arena in April 2022 and will leave Arena by mid-September 2023.

”We are very sad to see Sanne go. She took on the task full of energy and determination, and helped Arena grow to the sound organisation, we are today. She has been an appreciated colleague in the team throughout,” says founder Brigitte Alfter.

The Arena board, Sanne and Brigitte have in the past year developed a dual management structure for Arena, where Sanne was in charge of non-editorial aspects, while Brigitte focused on the development of the editorial activities.

”Sanne really lived up to our expectations, we’re sad to see her go,” says Nils Hanson, chairman of the Arena board.

”Sanne is an amazing person and professional, and seeing her go is a pity. I wish to thank her for the incredible work she has done within Arena. Her contribution has been truly substantial,” says Elisabetta Tola, secretary of the board of Arena.

”I am grateful to have been able to contribute to the significant growth of Arena in this period,” says Sanne Schim van der Loeff. ”It is now time for someone else to further develop the organisation, its structures and network. Arena’s team is not just mission-driven but talented, smart and inspiring. I have learned so much from working alongside Brigitte and my other colleagues, and I am excited to see what is next for Arena.”  Sanne will join a Netherlands-based international NGO.

Brigitte Alfter will resume her role as overall director of Arena, and we will look for a new management solution in the months to come.