Yvonne Kanters appointed new director of Fontys ICT

The Executive Board of Fontys has appointed Yvonne Kanters as Director of Fontys ICT with effect from 1 September 2026. She succeeds Frens Vonken, who is due to retire in early November 2026.

Yvonne Kanters brings with her extensive experience in higher education, where she has held various management roles for over thirty years. Until the end of September 2025, she was Director of the European Fashion Business School (EFBS Foundation), where she was responsible for the management of the organisation and the further development of education and operations. Previously, she served as director of the International Business School at Avans University of Applied Sciences and held management positions at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. At Fontys ICT, she will take over the reins between 1 September and 1 November, in close consultation with the current director, Frens Vonken.

‘At Fontys ICT, technological developments, education, research and social impact come together on a daily basis,’ says Yvonne Kanters. ‘Particularly in a sector where AI, digitalisation and technological innovation follow one another in rapid succession, agility, entrepreneurship and continuous innovation are essential. I feel at home in such an environment. What also appeals to me greatly is Fontys ICT’s strong position within the regional, national and international ecosystem. The intensive collaboration with partners in the Brainport region and beyond offers unique opportunities to further link talent development, innovation and social impact.’

The Executive Board is fully confident that Fontys ICT will continue to develop under the leadership of Yvonne Kanters. Joep Houterman, Chair of the Executive Board: ‘Yvonne brings a combination of strategic leadership, the ability to drive change and a people-oriented approach. She has extensive experience in managing complex educational organisations and knows how to effectively link education, research and operational management. Moreover, she has a strong international outlook and a keen eye for the social mission of higher education. We are convinced that she will further position Fontys ICT within a rapidly changing technological and social landscape. We wish her every success in this new role.’

author: Sander Peters