As your consultant, I will support you or your team in developing and recalibrating your organisation’s strategy. You can also come to me for an exploration of international opportunities or an evaluation of your current activities. I bring experience as a consultant and director at organisations in the international arts and cultural sector.More about Cees as consultant
Artwork: Joost RuttenCees de Graaff, consultant & coach for your organisation, your team or yourself
As a coach, I will help you work towards a concrete goal, giving you more control over your professional life, developing your communication skills and leadership abilities. I combine a personal involvement with people, life experience and professional knowledge acquired through training and education as a coach.More about Cees as coach
Artwork: Bart Eysink SmeetsWho is Cees de Graaff?
Do you know the story of the Japanese woodcutter who had no time to hone his axe?
I found this story fascinating even as a child. It is still such a simple, effective allegory. How can someone be so busy with the distractions of the day that they forget the essential maintenance needed to achieve their goal? Take time for reflection, for sharpening the most important tool you have: yourself.
After my childhood in Eindhoven and its surroundings, I left for Amsterdam to study Social Sciences. During my studies, I was active as a theatre maker, singer and activist. I learnt the principles of consultancy work for STOA, Consultancy Office for the Arts, and then worked as a business leader and director at several cultural organisations.
In search of the social and international power of culture, I left for Addis Ababa in 2001 as director of the Youth Circuses of Ethiopia. Back in the Netherlands, I became director of Arts and Culture Noord-Holland and founded Cultural Heritage Noord-Holland. In 2012, I became the first managing director of DutchCulture, the Dutch centre for international cultural cooperation.
I also have extensive experience as chairman and member of boards in the international and national cultural sectors. Besides my work, I have completed training and coaching programmes around strategy, vision and leadership. Since 2023, I have been established as an independent consultant and coach.
You can contact me directly. I am happy to answer your questions or make an appointment with you.Get in touch
Photography of Cees: Annaleen Louwes