[3] He founded the music ensemble HERMES in 1998[4][5] and continues to serve as its artistic director.
He has served as music director for the Belgian summer opera festival Zomeropera Alden Biesen.
[6][7] In December 2023, Dutch National Ballet announced the appointment of Kessels as its next music director, which includes the posts of artistic director and chief conductor of Het Balletorkest, effective 1 August 2024.
[8] Kessels concluded his tenure as music director of Birmingham Royal Ballet on 30 June 2024.
[9] Kessels is an honorary professor at Birmingham University, as well as artistic director of Inspiratum.