Municipal Secretary Catrien Lenstra Departs

As Municipal Secretary, Lenstra leads the civil servants working for the municipality. She is also the main advisor to the mayor and aldermens board and ensures that plans for the city are well executed. This also applies to Zandvoort, as the civil servants of the Municipality of Haarlem also work for the Municipality of Zandvoort. 

Not an easy decision

“With a heavy heart, I have decided to leave,” Lenstra states. “It was certainly not an easy decision, but sometimes an opportunity comes along that you feel you must seize. And that was this for me. I have always dedicated myself with great energy and involvement to Haarlem and Zandvoort. The city and the village have won a place in my heart. I am incredibly grateful and look back with warmth and confidence on what I leave behind.”

Strong foundation 

Mayor Jos Wienen: “Of course, we will miss Catrien as a highly valued and involved colleague. With her versatile experience, sharp eye, and heart for the organization and public affairs, she has meant a lot to us. I am grateful to Catrien for the strong foundation on which we can confidently build. I wish her much success and enjoyment with the beautiful new step she is taking in Amsterdam.”

Developments and challenges 

Since 2020, Lenstra has been involved with various developments and challenges of Haarlem, Zandvoort, and the municipal organization. She ensured more direction,  coordination, and faster decision-making within the organization. She also committed herself to an honest and socially safe working environment. And she strived for cooperation between Haarlem and Zandvoort.

What happens next

It is not yet known who will become the new Municipal Secretary of Haarlem. It is now up to the mayor and aldermens board to search for a successor for Lenstra.