As of September 1, Peter Teesink will leave his position as municipal secretary of the Municipality of Amsterdam. After over 6 years of leading the municipal organization, he has decided to step down and seek a new challenge. Teesink left his role as municipal secretary of Groningen in January 2019 to take on the daily leadership of the Municipality of Amsterdam.

In recent years, Teesink has dealt with many different developments and challenges facing the city and the organization. The relationship with the residents has been paramount. He has also worked towards stronger inclusion and diversity policies within the organization. Over the past years, he has advised two boards of mayor and aldermen, working closely with Mayor Halsema during turbulent times, such as during COVID and more recently the unrest in the city and increasing polarization in society.

‘A big heart for the public good’

Mayor Halsema: “Peter and I have worked very closely together over the past years, often in difficult and tense circumstances. Peter is a sharp-witted analyst with a big heart for the public good. He has not shied away from tackling tough and sensitive issues, such as institutional racism and declining trust in government, and has pushed for change. While I understand his decision, I greatly regret his departure.”

Not an easy decision

Municipal Secretary Peter Teesink: “The decision to step down on September 1 was not an easy one because I have one of the best jobs in the Netherlands. Amsterdam faces significant challenges every day that I have dedicated myself to with great energy and commitment. Not only for the residents of Amsterdam and Weesp but also for all Amsterdam civil servants and collaborating partners in the municipal organization. Working together for a more reliable, just, and inclusive municipality is an honorable and important task for me. After more than 6 years as municipal secretary in Amsterdam and previously in Groningen, I am curious about something new.”

The right moment

He continues: “Also, because of the municipal elections and the formation of a new college next year, September 1 feels like the right moment for me to step down. It is important that my successor and the organization can prepare for this together. I want to thank the employees, the college, and especially the mayor for the good cooperation and the trust I have been given. In the coming period, I will focus on everything that is yet to come, such as the final spring note of this college and, of course, on further embedding inclusion and diversity in the organization.”

New municipal secretary

The college of B and W will look for a new municipal secretary and will initiate the recruitment process in the coming months.