At TU Delft, issues with social safety were highlighted last year by the Dutch Inspectorate of Education. The institution was accused of "mismanagement." The university board responded strongly, even threatening legal action.

This reaction did not sit well with many staff members and was also criticized by the Inspectorate. In June, the Inspectorate wrote that it had "little confidence" in the board's ability to address the shortcomings.

Vice-Rector Rob Mudde stepped down from his position last autumn due to health reasons. Now, university magazine Delta reports that Chairperson/Rector Tim van der Hagen and board member Marien van der Meer are also leaving.

Van der Hagen will hand over his position in January 2026, a few months earlier than his planned retirement in October 2026. Van der Meer will step down in August 2025.

Separation of Roles

The departure of the board members is said to be unrelated to accusations of mismanagement or conflicts with staff. The stated reason is the introduction of a new governance model, in which the roles of rector and board chair will once again be separated.