Mervin Bakker takes over from Leonard Engel as the new EAIE Executive Director

As the EAIE celebrates 35 years of transformation and resilience, we mark another significant milestone in our journey. This year, we have not only introduced a new governance structure but will also bid farewell to our longstanding Executive Director, Leonard Engel, and warmly welcome his successor, Mervin Bakker. 

Leonard Engel joined the EAIE in 2010, transitioning from his role as Director of the International Office at Leiden University to become our Executive Director. During his time at the EAIE, he has led the Association through significant growth and change. He has guided the Association to new levels of professionalisation and spearheaded the EAIE’s commitment to operational excellence. During this time, the EAIE Conference and Exhibition has grown to become the premier international education event in Europe and beyond. In addition, the EAIE has become a knowledge base for research and resources in the sector, all thanks to Leonard’s determination to find new ways how the EAIE could support the community. The impact of the EAIE’s evolution during Leonard’s tenure brought about the growth of the EAIE Office – an international group of dedicated staff who work behind the scenes in Amsterdam.  

"I am most proud of the development and implementation of the EAIE Barometer research project, which became one of the most important publications of the EAIE and a sought-after resource by professionals and policy-makers working in the field. Based on the success of the Barometer, we created a new team within the Office focusing on knowledge development and research, ushering in a new phase in the EAIE’s development and role within the sector."

- Leonard Engel

Leonard, along with the EAIE Board, guided and supported the EAIE Office through the COVID-19 pandemic and remained a positive beacon throughout challenging times. Leonard’s dedication and passion for international higher education were the key ingredients for the EAIE’s continued resilience and drive. His skillful leadership allowed the Association to weather the storm and come out on the other end of the pandemic in a position where we were able to continue to grow - as a community and as a professional organisation. During his tenure, the position of the EAIE within the sector solidified and its mission and vision became its guiding compass. Looking to the future, Leonard reflects on how he sees the EAIE evolve. 

"The EAIE should make a huge effort to substantiate the impact of international higher education, not only by preaching to the converted but by building data and a narrative that can help counter nationalism, xenophobia and narrow mindedness and maybe help bridge the divides in today’s society."

- Leonard Engel

As Leonard closes his EAIE chapter and looks forward to his retirement, we are thrilled to welcome Mervin to the EAIE family.  

At the end of September, Leonard will pass the baton to Mervin Bakker as he steps into his new role. Mervin's career in international higher education spans 25 years. He has worked in various roles in Europe and beyond that are sure to set him in good stead to step into the role of EAIE Executive Director. His experience includes positions at several Dutch universities, at commercial entities, and as Regional Director for Nuffic’s offices in South Africa and Indonesia. His last role before becoming Executive Director at the EAIE was Director International Strategy & Relations at the University of Groningen, where he was responsible for the international strategy, managed relations with key partners globally, and contributed to the development of the European University alliance ENLIGHT. With a wealth of valuable and diverse experiences in different parts of the sector, Mervin is well-prepared to steer the EAIE with a steady hand at the helm.  

"Joining the EAIE team after Leonard's successful tenure feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I'm thrilled to have the chance to contribute to the further development of the EAIE as the key hub for making connections, knowledge sharing and professional growth in international education."

- Mervin Bakker

Mervin is also mindful of our community and sector's needs, with a strong interest in data-informed leadership and sustainable growth. He understands the EAIE's unique position as both a meeting point and a supportive network for young professionals, leaders and everyone working across the international higher education landscape.  

"Moving forward, I think it is important that we keep the interest of professionals in different career stages in mind and make sure that we represent the practitioners’ voice in the important dialogues on internationalisation with stakeholders in education, government and society."

- Mervin Bakker

As we look ahead to this new chapter, we invite the EAIE community to join us in celebrating Leonard’s legacy and welcoming Mervin’s leadership. At this year’s conference in Toulouse, we’ll honour the EAIE’s 35-year journey and anticipate an exciting future under Mervin’s guidance.