New director at the HDC
Dominique
THE HAGUE – Stichting Haags Dierencentrum has a new director: Jolijn Giesbers. With her appointment, the organization chooses a leader who knows the practical side inside out. Giesbers has actually been found every week for quite some time as a volunteer in the center’s dog department.
As the brand-new director, Giesbers bears ultimate responsibility for the overall management, animal welfare, and results of the Haags Dierencentrum. Her primary mission is to build a future-proof and high-quality organization. Additionally, she will become the new face of the center for the municipality of The Hague, partners, and the media.
Hands-on experience
The foundation’s board is enthusiastic about the arrival of the new director:
“Jolijn is already active on the ground. She knows the animals, the colleagues, and the daily dynamics on the floor. Combined with her social commitment and her extensive experience in quality management, this makes her the perfect fit to further professionalize the Haags Dierencentrum.”
Collaboration and a safe working environment
Giesbers officially started her new role on September 1st. She works closely with the board and is immediately appointing the heads of the Animal Care and Veterinary Clinic departments. One of her key priorities will be strengthening the connection and collaboration between permanent staff and the many volunteers, with the goal of creating a safe, professional, and inspiring working environment.
With the appointment of Jolijn Giesbers, the Haags Dierencentrum combines continuity with innovation, ensuring that the sheltering and rehoming of animals in The Hague region remains firmly anchored for the future.
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Frequently asked questions
Who is the new director of the Haags Dierencentrum?
Jolijn Giesbers is the new director. She combines a background in quality management with practical experience within the organization, where she has been active for a long time as a volunteer in the dog department.
What changes now that a new director has been appointed?
The focus is on building a future-proof organization and further professionalizing the services. Additionally, extra attention is being paid to the collaboration between permanent staff and volunteers to guarantee a pleasant and safe working environment.
Will the daily care for the animals remain the same?
Yes, the care for the shelter animals remains at the highest level. Jolijn Giesbers is immediately appointing the heads of the Animal Care and Veterinary Clinic departments to safeguard the quality of animal sheltering and medical care in The Hague region.
Why was someone chosen who was already a volunteer?
The board is consciously choosing a combination of continuity and innovation. Because Jolijn was already working on the floor, she knows the animals, the culture, and the daily challenges of the center inside out.
What are the most important tasks of the new director?
Giesbers is ultimately responsible for the overall management, animal welfare, and organizational results. She also acts as the official point of contact for the municipality of The Hague, the media, and external partners.
When did the new director officially start?
Jolijn Giesbers officially started her position as director on September 1, 2026.
