Jan Henk van der Velden leaves Utrecht Science Park Foundation and becomes the new Managing Director at Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park
After nine years, Jan Henk van der Velden will step down as Managing Director of the Utrecht Science Park Foundation effective this coming July 1. As of September 1, 2026, Jan Henk will become Managing Director of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park Foundation. He announced his departure several months ago.
In recent years, Utrecht Science Park has further developed into a leading ecosystem for education, research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. During his tenure as Managing Director, Jan Henk made a significant contribution to the growth, positioning, visibility, and collaboration of Utrecht Science Park, both regionally and nationally.
Arjen Gerritsen, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Utrecht Science Park Foundation, expresses his appreciation for Jan Henk’s efforts: “Over the past few years, Jan Henk has literally and figuratively put Utrecht Science Park on the map. I therefore look back on our collaboration with appreciation and pleasure. He can be proud of what has been achieved. We thank him for all his dedication, support, and the growth that Utrecht Science Park has experienced in recent years.”
After a long career as a partner lawyer at a renowned law firm, Jan Henk van der Velden consciously chose a new path in 2017: applying his knowledge and experience as a director for an organization with a relevant societal objective. That step proved successful. He became Managing Director of the Utrecht Science Park Foundation, the representative of the largest science park in the Netherlands. With more than 150 organizations, 32,000 employees, and 60,000 students, this is a dynamic partnership dedicated to a healthy and sustainable society. Together with the team and partners, he championed the social and economic interests of the area and fostered collaboration among all stakeholders.
Jan Henk van der Velden’s farewell will take place on Monday, July 6, starting at 4:30 PM at Grand Café The Living at the Utrecht Science Park. If you are interested in attending but have not yet received an invitation, please send a message to communicatie@utrechtsciencepark.nl.
The Utrecht Science Park Foundation thanks Jan Henk van der Velden for his great commitment and dedication over the past nine years and wishes him the best of luck in his new role at the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park Foundation.
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