Peter Daniels has worked for the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) for the past fifteen years, including in his current role as Director of Operations. A field of work with many overlaps with the police, especially in investigations. ‘The police heart still beats,’ says Daniels. ‘I look forward to returning to the police, the place where my career in the security domain once began. This beautiful profession grabs you, you either love it or you don’t. It feels very nice to step back into the uniform.’
Technology and People Work
Daniels has a lot of experience with digital transformation from the AIVD, a topic that is high on the police agenda. ‘You need to invest in the further digital development of the police organization, in the ability to quickly and effectively utilize new technologies, with people at the center. Police work remains people work; you can’t solve a neighborhood dispute with a computer system. Digitally transforming means supporting police officers as much as possible with technology, to work smarter and more efficiently. There is still work to be done in this area, but I am happy to contribute.’
Connectedness
‘I feel connected to the Zeeland-West-Brabant unit; I love coming here, even privately,’ says Daniels. A dynamic unit with special characteristics, from the vast countryside to urban issues and four seaports, located along a border of 250 kilometers with Belgium. A logistical dream, also for organized crime, as Daniels knows. ‘The southern region faces challenges in terms of undermining crime, and I see a police unit that works hard and achieves great results in tackling undermining. But it is evident that the problem is significant and requires our ongoing attention. A challenge I will not shy away from. Of course, I will not do this alone. I believe in collective leadership and giving professional space; we do this work together. I will also be very present with the teams in the unit in my role as police chief. I like to be among the people because that’s where you make a difference, not from behind a desk.’
Experience
The Chief of Police, Janny Knol, is pleased with Daniels arrival. ‘Peter is known as an experienced leader with a keen eye for what motivates employees and what the organization needs. Someone who can bridge differences and – even when things get tough or there are contradictions – always stays in touch with everyone. After starting his career at the police, Peter gained much experience in the security domain, but he never lost sight of us. I am glad he is returning now and bringing that experience with him, especially regarding undermining and digital developments that can further assist our work.’
Career
Peter Daniels started after the Police Academy (1996) in the police region of Amsterdam, later worked as team leader of the National Investigation and was Head of the Regional Intelligence Service in The Hague. In 2010, Daniels made a switch to the AIVD, where he held various positions. He led the regional and special intelligence services at the police and royal military police, was head of the BVA department responsible for the safety of the AIVD, and led the unit that carries out cyber operations for both the AIVD and the Military Intelligence Service. In his last role as Director of Operations, he was responsible for all operational activities and operations of the AIVD.
Figurehead
The works council of Zeeland-West-Brabant is pleased with the arrival of Peter Daniels as the new police chief. ‘Peter Daniels has demonstrated great expertise, connecting qualities, and a big police heart. We have every confidence in Peter as the new figurehead of our unit.’
