International Talent in South Holland Conference
On 11 December, the international centres of Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam came together to host an event for partners, professionals, and policymakers focused on attracting, supporting, and retaining international talent in the region. Through interactive breakout sessions, participants explored topics including upcoming changes to the highly skilled migrant permit, strategies to improve international students’ stay rates, and ways to unlock the potential of underemployed internationals already living in the Netherlands.
In three interactive breakout sessions, participants explored these key topics:
- The stay rate of international students in South Holland. This is a key concern, with only about half staying one year after graduation and around 33% staying after five years. Universities and organisations are implementing programs to retain international students after they have completed their studies. This includes Dutch language courses, career fairs, networking platforms, internships, and alumni support.
- There's a pool of untouched international talent already in the Netherlands. With more support towards partners, it will be easier to fill job positions and prevent potential failed relocations.
- The proposed changes to highly skilled migrant permits, which could create uncertainty around salary thresholds, international talent recruitment, and complications for the organisations that sponsor these workers.
During the plenary session, four organisations presented their work and touched upon the importance of international talent for their ecosystems.
- Mark Ruijsendaal, from Security Delta (HSD), emphasized the rapid growth of the (cyber)security sector and the rising demand for highly specialised talent.
- Thijs Remijn, from Leiden Bio Science Park, highlighted the invaluable contribution of international talent across the pharmaceutical and biotech ecosystem.
- Joost van der Veen, on behalf of Beethoven Zuid-Holland, described how their programme is reframing the narrative on international talent.
- Settly, represented by Marieke van Ieperen, noted that AI is reshaping how we view talent and will transform the world of global mobility.
Finally, we were proud to announce that in collaboration with The Hague International Centre, Rotterdam International Center, Economic Board Zuid-Holland, Provincie Zuid-Holland, Gemeente Leiden, Gemeente Voorschoten, Gemeente Leiderdorp and Gemeente Zoeterwoude we are developing the Work in South Holland website. This platform will feature joint events and a job board showcasing thousands of English-language opportunities across Leiden, The Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam. It is designed to attract, welcome, and retain international talent in South Holland.