Amsterdam appoints Catrien Lenstra as new municipal secretary

The municipal secretary leads the civil service organization, is the primary advisor to the mayor and aldermen, and ensures that plans for the city are well executed. It is a role with significant influence on how the municipality works for the residents of Amsterdam and Weesp.

Rooted in the city

Catrien has lived in Amsterdam almost her entire life, in various neighborhoods. She currently lives with her family in the Rivierenbuurt. “Amsterdam is truly my city. I have lived here since I was three with great pleasure,” she says. She has also regularly been a spectator at Ajax matches since she was young.

Extensive experience

Between 2007 and 2020, Catrien worked at the Municipality of Amsterdam, including as director of Legal Affairs. Since 2020, she has been municipal secretary of Haarlem and general director of the organization serving Haarlem and Zandvoort.

She has extensive experience collaborating with social, cultural, and knowledge institutions. Previously, she worked at a law firm and studied Dutch law at the University of Amsterdam.

Important role in a city with major challenges

Amsterdam is growing and faces significant issues regarding housing, accessibility, and livability. The municipal organization is therefore changing to better respond to the citys current and future needs.

As the new municipal secretary and general director, Catrien will play a central role in this transformation. “I am proud that I will soon contribute as municipal secretary and general director to the great work for the residents of Amsterdam and the development of our beautiful city.”

Mayor looks forward to collaboration

Mayor Femke Halsema is pleased with her arrival. “It is incredibly good news that Catrien Lenstra will lead the civil service organization in the coming years. There is a lot of work to be done in the city and within the municipality. I look forward to working together with Catrien, with new energy.”