Executive Board member Annette van Velde takes on water safety portfolio at the Dutch Water Authorities

Three-year appointment

Annette takes over the portfolio from Vincent Lokin, who had been serving in an interim capacity since 1 January 2025, following the appointment of Jeroen Haan as chairperson of the Dutch Water Authorities. The appointment is for three years, with the option to extend it for another three years.

Jeroen Haan, Chairperson of the Dutch Water Authorities: "I am pleased with the appointment of Annette van Velde. I am confident that she will make a significant contribution to representing the interests of the water authorities with great enthusiasm and dedication. She is a well-rounded board member with a collaborative management style who will strengthen both the Authorities Board and the Flood Protection Programme. She will also play a positive and constructive role as chairperson of the Water Safety Committee.”

Plenty of challenges

Within her new portfolio, Van Velde will be involved in water safety, road management, and the Delta Programme, which includes the Flood Protection Programme. " I am eager to devote my energy to my role as portfolio holder for water safety at the association of 21 water authorities," says Annette van Velde about her appointment. "There are plenty of challenges, now that the way we live with water is increasingly reaching its limits. Due to more extreme periods of rain and drought, there is a major task ahead to improve the safety of our living environment, for example by strengthening the dykes."

Background

Annette van Velde has been a member of the executive board of Noorderzijlvest Water Authority since April 2019. She represents the combinatie Geborgd Ongebouwd–VVD–CDA and serves as second deputy dyke reeve. Her portfolio includes water safety, sufficient and clean water, subsidence, and muskrats and coypu control.

Dutch Water Authorities

The Dutch Water Authorities is the association of Dutch water authorities. Water authorities are responsible for managing flood defences, regional water management, and wastewater treatment. There are a total of 21 water authorities in the Netherlands. The Dutch Water Authorities represents the water authorities at national and international levels, advocates their interests, and promotes knowledge exchange and cooperation.