Leiden International Centre Launches Employer Partnership Programme

This article was featured in INTO Magazine's Spring 2025 edition. Read it in Dutch here (page 38, 39).
Original text by Erna Kagenaar, translation by Leiden International Centre.

Jenny Willcock, manager at Leiden International Centre (LIC), proudly announces the new Employer Partnership Programme together with her team. The innovative programme consists of four tailor-made packages, specifically designed for employers who want to attract and retain top international talent. The programme is intended for companies of all sizes, including SMEs.

Additional services especially for employers

Companies and organisations located in Leiden, Leiderdorp, Voorschoten, or Zoeterwoude can make use of this Employer Partnership Programme. The well-thought-out and developed information platform offers services and various benefits for both employers and international employees.

For example, LIC can expedite the BSN (citizen service number) application for employees, and as an employer, you gain access to exclusive events and information resources that simplify the integration process of international staff.

The convenience and time savings, as well as the ability to attract and retain international talent through the programme’s insights and support, will lead to greater success. Moreover, smaller companies in the SME sector often do not have dedicated HR departments in order to keep business costs low. That’s why the Employer Partnership Programme is also an attractive option for them.

Tailor-made packages

“We offer four tailor-made packages, of which the basic package is available free of charge,” says Jenny, who goes on to explain: “For the other packages, such as the Start-Up Support (suitable for companies with fewer than 10 employees), the Silver Package, and the Gold Package, the costs are relatively low and highly functional.

A small sample of what’s offered: The LIC team supports and advises on the onboarding of international employees. Companies benefit from discounts on BSN appointments and receive invitations to networking events organised by Leiden&Partners.

In addition, vacancies are promoted on the LIC website and posted on the job boards Welcome to NL and South Holland. As an employer, you stay up to date with the latest trends and information about internationals and are involved in regional programmes.”

Faster Processing of Key Procedures, Allowing Quicker Start to Work

In addition to offering discounts, LIC can also expedite the application process for a BSN, allowing employees to start working sooner. LIC also provides comprehensive, tailored support in areas such as housing, employment, and integration — services that are valuable both economically and socially.

“Together with our partners in the Leiden region, LIC organises exclusive events to help make social life in the Netherlands easier for highly skilled migrants,” says Jenny, speaking with a British accent. Originally from the UK, Jenny has truly found her place in the Netherlands and is now fully settled in her beloved city of Leiden.

She first came to Amsterdam a few years ago to pursue a Master’s degree, and later moved to the knowledge-driven city of Leiden. With her expertise and personal integration experience, she and her three-person team play an innovative and connecting role in both the economic and social spheres.

“LIC is not a relocation company. Our goal is to improve the region’s business climate by attracting and retaining international talent,” she explains.

Why do companies in the Leiden region benefit from international talent?

“The growth of the Leiden Bio Science Park, the presence of the Leiden University Medical Center, and the NL Space Campus Noordwijk are attracting top talent. This also makes the region an appealing location for international companies to establish themselves.

In addition to Dutch talent, there is a strong demand for international professionals in these fields. The fact that Leiden is a student city for both national and international students is a major advantage for our region,” Jenny responds.

Clarity in Administrative Matters Creates Sharper Business Focus

Jenny highlights the benefits of both the familiar and new service offerings for international talent and employers in today’s tight labour market.

“You have to imagine that hiring international talent, who already has the necessary conditions in place to live and work in the Netherlands, increases internal business focus. Just consider language learning, arranging health insurance, handling tax matters, pension plans, and indirect assistance with finding housing — all of which, thanks to our support, makes things easier for both parties.

Additionally, we also provide support in social areas, helping individuals build networks and form friendships. All of these elements offer a strong foundation for staying in Leiden and the surrounding region for as long as possible, which of course benefits employers as well. Our services are for newcomers, but are also used by internationals in the months and years that follow. By now approaching our valuable services from an employer perspective, we want to raise awareness on a large scale.”

Drinks with a Purpose

One of the monthly social events that is heavily attended by internationals is Meet & Mingle. With a group of dozens of interested individuals, different venues in the region are visited each time to enjoy a drink together. These events are important for helping skilled migrants build a local social network, which is a crucial step in feeling at home here. Of course, this is also beneficial for employers in retaining their top talent. <

> LIC is a non-profit organisation with no profit motive. Revenues generated from the Employer Partnership Programme are reinvested back into the organisation to expand services and offerings. LIC is a joint initiative of Leiden & Partners, the municipalities of Leiden, Voorschoten, Leiderdorp, Zoeterwoude, LUMC, Leiden University, and the LBSP Foundation.