As of that date David Lauwen succeeds Renate Eringa, who has been interim president since October 2022. Lauwen's appointment took place after consultation with an advisory committee consisting of members of the Executive Board team, the head of Human Resources and the participation council.

The Supervisory Board is pleased with Lauwen's appointment. Paul Zevenbergen, chairman of the Supervisory Board: "David is a decisive and connecting director. His expertise lies in strategy, finance and organizational development, both in the public and private sector. In addition, he has a great fondness for education, art and culture. We are convinced that together with staff, students and the institutions involved with Codarts in Rotterdam, he will give further direction to the future of the university. The Supervisory Board thanks Renate Eringa for her skilful and energetic commitment to Codarts as interim board chair. David and his team can build on that for the sake of our beautiful Codarts!"

Lauwen: “I am tremendously honored to take on the role of president at Codarts. With our shared passion for art and education, I am determined to work with the motivated team and our students to create a creative and inspiring environment for the new generation of talents.”

About David Lauwen

Lauwen began his career as a lecturer-researcher in economics at Utrecht University. He then worked a.o. as a financial director at an international family business. In 2011 he founded Het Creatief Kapitaal, where as managing director he advises cultural institutions and creative companies strategically and financially, including the Filmfonds, EYE Filmmuseum, the Ministry of OCW, Excelsior Recordings and Concertlab. Lauwen also has extensive experience in management and supervision. For example, he is a trainer and facilitator at the Erasmus Governance Institute, where he shares his knowledge with future supervisors and directors. In addition, he sits on the Supervisory Board of the Melkweg, Omroep Zwart and Brabant C, and previously BNNVARA.

Lauwen has a great love for art and culture and is a musician. He is 49 years old, married to Marie-Louise, has four children and lives in Brabant.