Leadership Transition at Eye Filmmuseum Amsterdam as Managing Director Steps Down
Amsterdam's renowned Eye Filmmuseum announced on March 2, 2026, that its Managing Director, Bregtje van der Haak, will be stepping down from her position. Her departure follows a significant reorganisation effort that has, according to the museum, established a new foundation for its future operations. Both Ms. van der Haak and the Board of Trustees believe this next phase calls for new leadership to guide the institution forward, as detailed in an official press release from the museum PDF.
To ensure a smooth transition, John Middelweerd, who has served as a financial advisor to Eye, has been appointed Interim Managing Director. Ms. van der Haak will remain available until April 1, 2026, to assist with the handover process. The Board of Trustees will now begin the search for a permanent successor.
Enhancing Film Culture and Visitor Experience
During her tenure, Bregtje van der Haak played a crucial role in solidifying Eye Filmmuseum's standing as a leading national and international film institution. Her leadership emphasized the social relevance of film and fostered a dynamic connection between the museum's extensive collection and its public presentations.
Key achievements under her guidance included the staging of notable exhibitions such as "Tilda Swinton – Ongoing" and "Eye(s) Open – New Perspectives on Colonial Film Heritage." The museum also presented comprehensive retrospectives dedicated to acclaimed filmmakers like Akira Kurosawa and the Coen Brothers. Furthermore, the classic feature film The Vanishing (George Sluizer, 1988) received a restoration and re-release, and the permanent, free-to-access Animation Gallery was opened, offering visitors new ways to engage with film art. These initiatives underscored Eye's commitment to dialogue, artistic authorship, and fostering connection through film. Ms. van der Haak also initiated partnerships with festivals such as CinemAsia and Africadelic, enhancing international collaborations and exhibition exchanges.
Eye Filmmuseum's Vision for the Future
Marc van Warmerdam, Chair of Eye's Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude for Ms. van der Haak’s dedication during a period of significant change. He highlighted that the reorganisation has provided a clearer vision for the "Living Archive" concept. The museum is now poised to enter a phase focused on achieving organizational stability, strengthening its heritage preservation tasks, and boosting public engagement.
Future priorities for Eye Filmmuseum include embracing a diversity of voices, expanding its impact – particularly among younger audiences – and ensuring the preservation, management, and accessibility of its celebrated collection. Special attention will also be given to analogue film culture and Dutch cinema. Ms. van der Haak shared her wishes for the museum, hoping it continues to be a welcoming meeting place where the past, present, and future of film continually inspire and recombine for all film lovers.
For visitors interested in current exhibitions and screenings, or to explore more about Amsterdam’s cinematic offerings, Musemap (musemap.art) provides up-to-date information. You can discover upcoming events at the museum by visiting what's on, browse other museums across the city, or locate them on the map.
