LEAD-OBP
We show up. We listen. We act.
At Maastricht University, support staff are the backbone of our community. In times of budget cuts and new national policies, we need leadership that protects our future. That’s where LEAD-OBP comes in.
We are a diverse group of committed colleagues, both local and international, from across the university with different backgrounds, functions and levels of experience. What unites us is our belief in people-first leadership and our commitment to a university where support staff feel seen and valued. We don’t just represent, we listen. We seek feedback from across the university, because that’s how real representation works. With years of experience in university and faculty councils we’ve seen what works and what needs to change. We’re committed to clear, open communication and making sure decisions are shared in ways that everyone can access and understand.
What are we fighting for?
1. Fair recognition and rewards policy: Recognition and rewards at UM has been shaped primarily around academic staff. While support staff aren’t excluded, the implementation often feels less visible. With so many roles and job profiles the focus for support staff has shifted towards career development, encouraging staff to shape their own paths. That’s important, but it’s not enough. We believe that support staff deserve the same structural appreciation and institutional backing as academic staff. We will push for a stronger, clearer recognition and rewards policy tailored to our work.
2. Sustainable employability: Every support staff member should have access to secure, sustainable employment. That means fixed contracts and open communication about career options. We believe new initiatives should only move forward if they’re properly staffed from the start. We will work to address work pressure, and make sure our people aren't stretched too thin.
3. Strengthening our regional ties: We want UM to invest in the region to help attract and retain talent that wants to build a life here. That includes both local and international staff. Support staff should be able to thrive, connect, and grow roots here in Limburg and the Euroregion. We will always back initiatives that support both the university and the communities around it. From the region, for the region!
We believe that the university’s challenges should not come at the expense of its people. Vote LEAD-OBP for engaged and effective council work for the whole of UM!
Netty Bekkers-Vos (MUO)
It is an honour to serve as a council member and represent support staff. During my first term I gained a lot of insights and learned how our university is governed and the role of the University Council. The work of the council does influence policy and decision making on important topics.
Connecting with fellow council members and colleagues from faculties and service units is very valuable and such a pleasure! And with our students. They show us why this work is important: creating an inclusive environment for all and making their time at UM an unforgettable positive experience.
Andrada Matauanu (FASoS)
I'm a jurist by training and currently an education policy advisor at FASoS. I value the international character of theUM and the diversity within our community. This is what makes us strong!
As a young support staff member, I know it’s hard to start a career. It takes hard work and recognition. As your representative, I will fight for the recognition&rewards of support staff, for diversity within the UM, and push for a clear and inclusive decision-making.
The voices of support staff are strong and should stay strong within the University Council. If you vote for me that is a guarantee!
Massimo Wolfs (LAW)
In 2023 I was elected as a council member for the faculty of LAW (Support Staff), in this period I learned a lot from working with different council-members, the faculty board but also from my own constituents. Positive change can only be initiated with the valuable input from all stakeholders.
As a scheduler and SAP keyuser I am constantly in contact with different UM stakeholders, getting input about shaping a balanced, inclusive and positive work- and learning environment. My goal is to contribute to the latter as much as I can.
Fiona Passanha (FHML)
Serving on the University Council has been an incredible honor. With nine years at UM in research, education, and support, I’ve seen both the challenges we face and the strength of our community. Advocating for my colleagues by listening, learning, and bringing their concerns forward has been a privilege, and I’m excited to run for another term.
As UM navigates uncertainties, I remain committed to a strong, sustainable future for all staff. With your support, I will continue to champion transparency, stability, and a university where every voice is heard. Let’s move forward together!
An Stevens
At the UM and in my personal life, I am passionate about health@work and sustainable work in line with your talents, Physical Activity for all (able and less able, healthy and chronically ill), nutrition. At the UM, I follow these themes with interest.
I would love to bring my experience and commitment in the following areas to the council :
- Leadership: authentic leadership, serving leadership
- Transparency in career paths for OBP as a part of ‘recognition and rewards’
- Health at work and the link with sustainable employability
