During the public council meeting, Henk van Tilborg, chairman of the confidence committee, explained: “With Fleur Gräper, Tilburg gains an innovative leader with courage, authority, and the ability to balance humanity and business. She is a forward-looking and inspiring figurehead: visible, approachable, and decisive. Fleur is a unifier who embraces our independent city and advocates for the interests of Tilburg and its residents with her experience, personality, and network.”
Background Information
Fleur Gräper is an experienced administrator. In 2024, she served as (caretaker) State Secretary for Education, Culture, and Science. Prior to that, she was a commissioner for the province of Groningen for eight years and served as vice-chair of the IPO (Interprovincial Consultation). Earlier, she was general secretary for the Social-Economic Council of Northern Netherlands. She currently holds several additional positions, including chair of the national program committee of D66.
Gräper studied history at the University of Groningen. She is married, 50 years old, and mother of two studying children. She lives in the municipality of Groningen. After her installation, she will move to the municipality of Tilburg.
Royal Decree
The recommendation of the city council is submitted to the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. Because Tilburg has more than 50,000 inhabitants, the caretaker cabinet first discusses the nomination. The appointment is final once the Royal Decree is signed.
The installation of Fleur Gräper as mayor of Tilburg will take place on January 21, 2026. This will happen during a public council meeting in the presence of the Kings Commissioner in North Brabant, Mrs. Ina Adema.
17 Applicants
In recent months, the confidence committee has worked based on an extensive profile to select the new mayor for Tilburg. There were 17 applicants interested. Eight women and nine men applied for the position.
