Renske Satijn is the Director of Rotterdam Festivals. Driven by the belief that culture contributes to an inclusive society, she is committed to shaping a festival and cultural landscape in Rotterdam that surprises and connects people. She firmly believes in culture as an antidote to polarization.

Satijn is an expert in metropolitan development, public–private partnerships, event policy, festivals, cultural participation, audience engagement and impact, cultural marketing, city marketing, governance, and tourism. She was part of the core team behind the Eurovision Song Contest 2020 & 2021 Host City and was responsible for the content programme and city programme for the celebration of 10 years of the King’s reign and King’s Day 2023 in Rotterdam.

As the managing director of an independent foundation, Satijn leads a team of 25 FTE and works closely with Rotterdam-based creators, policymakers, and organisations in culture, tourism and education. She is known as a sharp strategist and energetic catalyst who connects the right people and ideas to meaningful projects.

Her work at Rotterdam Festivals in advancing inclusion and innovation has gained international recognition: most recently, Rotterdam was named the 2025 IFEA World Festival & Event City.