Since when have you been a member of EBTH, and why did you decide to join (what motivates you)?
I have been a member since 2018 and have served as the chair of the Economic Board since 2021. My motivation to join the board stems from a personal drive to improve the Broad Prosperity of our city. I consider it both important and an honor to be able to offer solicited and unsolicited advice to the city and its administration.

What is your background, and which domain do you represent?
In daily life, I am the Director of Rabobank Regio Den Haag, which gives me insight into both business and personal financial matters. Rabobank is also socially engaged in the city, allowing me to contribute to a wide range of topics. In addition to my banking expertise, I bring knowledge in marketing and business administration.

What do you hope to achieve with the board, and what are you most proud of?
I want more and more stakeholders in the city to know where to find the Economic Board The Hague – to strengthen their plans, make connections, and provide a critical perspective where needed. What makes me proud is that we are not only focused on the theme of work, but increasingly approach it from the broader perspective of Broad Prosperity. This helps us better address today’s complex challenges. Initiatives like The Hague Connected (focused on accessibility) and our advice on the city’s structural vision are great examples of this. And of course, I’m proud of the success of our annual networking event Den Haag Inspireert, which we organize together with the municipality and our partners.

What is the biggest opportunity waiting to be seized in The Hague?
The greatest opportunity lies in putting the interests of the city first, above political or personal agendas. Predictable and consistent policymaking is essential to restore public trust and continue building together on the Netherlands’ third-largest city. This doesn’t require financial or material investment, only the will and commitment to collaborate.
From an economic perspective, there is tremendous potential in strengthening and concretely developing The Hague’s identity as the City of Peace & Justice. By sharpening this positioning, the city can enhance its image as an international hub and economic powerhouse.