Our board members in the spotlight: This is Ellen Maat

10th April 2025

Since when have you been a member of the EBTH and what motivated you to join?
I have been a member of the Economic Board The Hague since 2022. My motivation to join stems from my belief that good and accessible healthcare is a vital condition for the economic development of the city. At the same time, the healthcare sector itself is an essential part of that economy. From this perspective, I am happy to contribute to the Board. Additionally, I feel a strong connection with The Hague, where I have enjoyed living for over 25 years.

What background do you represent, and which domain do you represent?
I have worked in the healthcare sector throughout my entire career. For the past six years, I have been an executive at Florence, a large (elderly) care organization in the Haaglanden region. Every day, twenty thousand residents rely on Florence’s healthcare professionals. Together with 3,300 employees and over 1,100 volunteers, we help people continue living the lives they cherish as much as possible. I represent the healthcare domain within the Board.

What would you like to achieve with the Board, and what are you most proud of?
With my contribution to the Board, I want to strengthen the connection between quality care and economic growth in The Hague. I am proud that at Florence, with so many dedicated employees and volunteers, we make a difference every day for thousands of people in the Haaglanden region. It is remarkable to see how we collectively contribute to the quality of life for our clients.

What is the biggest opportunity waiting to be seized in The Hague?
I see a significant opportunity in further integrating the healthcare sector into the city’s economic agenda. Healthcare is not only crucial for the well-being of residents but also forms an important pillar of the local economy. By collaborating and innovating, we can both improve healthcare and strengthen The Hague’s economic power.