Ilze Raath Thorburn
Bilzen-Hoeselt
Summary
Accomplished leader with strategic communication expertise at Zuyd University. Spearheaded intercultural syllabus alignment and led interdisciplinary projects that enhanced institutional leadership. Multilingual professional skilled in network management, bridging academic research with regional development to drive innovation and impact.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Lecturer & Research Lead
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
01.2021 - Current
- Led strategic initiatives in School of Translation, Interpreting, and European Studies.
- Developed Intercultural Communication syllabus, aligning curriculum across European Studies, ICT, and Commercial Economy departments.
- Research & Knowledge Management: Active Researcher within the VAClab Research Unit; contributing to institutional knowledge in applied linguistics and communication.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary projects, enhancing collaboration between technical and business faculties to promote student innovation.
Senior Lecturer & Course Coordinator
Fontys University of Applied Sciences
01.2013 - 01.2025
- Directed International Business Development Team, enhancing leadership and driving innovation initiatives.
- Strategic Program Development: Spearheaded the overhaul of international curricula, focusing on innovative assessment forms and Euregional integration.
- Coordinated high-impact modules, including Intercultural Communication and Cross-border Netherlands/Germany Business minor, ensuring curriculum alignment with strategic objectives.
- Collaborated with Lectoraat International Management & Business to align academic research with regional economic development, supporting YUFE mission of regional impact.
Director (Various Boards)
International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
01.2003 - 01.2025
- Directed programme development and academic outreach initiatives across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
- Directed strategic communication initiatives for global business professionals.
- Managed cross-functional teams to enhance membership engagement and retention.
- Developed comprehensive training programs for communication best practices.
Lecturer & Project Lead
Middlesex University Brussels (UBI) / Erasmus Hogeschool
01.2011 - 01.2020
- Managed international communication projects and cross-cultural management modules, fostering collaboration in a diverse, European-centric academic environment.
- Developed course materials for diverse academic programs at an international institution.
- Facilitated engaging lectures to enhance student learning and participation.
- Mentored students in academic and career development throughout their studies.
Lead Consultant/Trainer
EU Institutional Training & Consultancy
01.1999 - 01.2012
- Engaged stakeholders through high-level drafting, writing, and media training for European Commission, European Parliament, and European Council, enhancing communication strategies.
- Developed bespoke syllabi for Eurofound (Ireland) and Eurocontrol (Brussels) to ensure institutional clarity and align with European standards, improving educational outcomes.
- Led training programs for EU institutions to enhance professional development.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to identify training needs and develop curricula.
- Facilitated workshops and seminars to promote best practices in consultancy.
Education
BKO & BKE (Dutch Higher Education Teaching/Examining Diplomas) - Education And Examination
Fontys
Netherlands01-2014
Master’s Degree - Linguistics
University of Johannesburg
01-1999
Honours Degree - Linguistics
University of Johannesburg
01-1996
Post-Graduate Diploma - Translation
University of Stellenbosch
01-1992
Skills
- Institutional Leadership
- Network Management
- Strategic Communication
- Multilingualism
Additional Information
A detailed CV with references is available.
Memberships And Boards
- International Association of Business Communication, EMENA Board (2025-)
- Brussels Press Club, Board Member, 2015–2018
- Society for Technical Communication, Judge for Annual Awards
- Sietar (Society for Intercultural Education, Training and Research), Member
Education And Accreditations
- BKO & BKE (Dutch Higher Education Teaching/Examining Diplomas), Netherlands, 01/01/14
- Master’s Degree in Linguistics, University of Johannesburg, 01/01/99
- Honours Degree in Linguistics, University of Johannesburg, 01/01/96
- Post-Graduate Diploma in Translation, University of Stellenbosch, 01/01/92
- Accredited Practitioner, Hofstede Insights (Intercultural Management), 01/01/15
Languages
English
Native
Native
Dutch
Proficient (C2)
C2
German
Advanced (C1)
C1
Italian
Beginner (A1)
A1
French
Beginner
A1
Afrikaans
Proficient (C2)
C2
Timeline
Senior Lecturer & Research Lead
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
01.2021 - Current
Senior Lecturer & Course Coordinator
Fontys University of Applied Sciences
01.2013 - 01.2025
Lecturer & Project Lead
Middlesex University Brussels (UBI) / Erasmus Hogeschool
01.2011 - 01.2020
Director (Various Boards)
International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
01.2003 - 01.2025
Lead Consultant/Trainer
EU Institutional Training & Consultancy
01.1999 - 01.2012
BKO & BKE (Dutch Higher Education Teaching/Examining Diplomas) - Education And Examination
Fontys
Master’s Degree - Linguistics
University of Johannesburg
Honours Degree - Linguistics
University of Johannesburg
Post-Graduate Diploma - Translation
University of Stellenbosch