Dorine Manson

“When I really want something, I can do it “

Dorine Manson is an experienced director and supervisor in the social, public and private sector. She started December 1, 2023 as Chair of the Board of KWF (Dutch Cancer Society) of a two-person collegiate board in Amsterdam. With a support base of more than 1 million donors and many volunteers KWF is one of the leading NGO’s and the largest private funder of cancer research in The Netherlands.

Dorine her career led from PWC, the municipality of Amsterdam, the Dutch Refugee Council to the Postcode lottery/Friends lottery and now KWF. She gained broad experience with governance, mergers, reorganisations, strategy operations, mission development, compliance, lobbying, advocacy and media appearances. She is used to complex environments and sensitive subjects such as climate, asylum politics, poverty reduction and cultural needs. Dorine is at her best when she can connect the different domains (public, private, NGO’s), translate different interests and get things moving.

How did I unlock my potential?

I have always been curious and broadly interested in the world around me. That’s why I chose to study History and during that period went on an exchange to Moscow (23 years old). This is where I learned that I can cope with all uncertainties that go with living in the Soviet Union; was able to adapt. This period was very important for further developing my self knowledge. Looking for my first job – during a 6 month internship- I found my talent in building relations and showing my added value in the project I was working on. Others saw this as well and I was offered 6 jobs. That trust in my talents unlocked my potential.