Meijdam was elected to the position during a general meeting of members yesterday (29 March) and will assume the role with effect from 1 April. He replaces Aad Kobus, who had been serving as interim chairman of the organisation for some time.
A highly experienced professional, Meijdam has served in a number of leadership, senior and directorship roles during his career including mayor of Zaanstad and Lelystad, and deputy of the province of North Holland.
Meijdam has also worked as an advisor, commissioner and director of various organisations and companies.
“As chairman, I would like to work together with the members,” Meijdam said at the meeting. “They have important issues on their agenda, which I am happy to commit to. But first of all, I want to get to know the members and the various stakeholders in the coming period.
“Many Dutch people enjoy our activities. We would like to serve them in a modern way, where fun and responsible gaming go hand in hand.”
Outgoing interim chairman Kobus added: “We have found an experienced director as chairman in Henry Meijdam. As a sector, we face various challenges in and around politics and entrepreneurship.
“With Henry’s experience and profile, we want to put Van Kansspelen further on the map and best represent the sector.”