Aart Jan de Geus is a distinguished leader with extensive experience across government, international organizations, academia, and the private sector. With a career spanning over five decades, he has played pivotal roles in shaping social policy, labor market reforms, and sustainable economic development at both national and international levels.
Mr. de Geus began his career in finance and administration before transitioning into labour relations and public policy. He served in senior leadership positions within the Dutch Christian Union for Industrial Branches (Industriebond CNV) and later at the National Confederation of Christian Unions (Vakcentrale CNV), where he rose to become Vice-Chairman. His expertise in social dialogue and labour relations laid the foundation for his later contributions to public service.
Mr. de Geus was appointed Minister of Social Affairs and Employment (CDA) (2002 – 2007) and Minister of Health, Welfare and Sports (CDA) (2002 – 2003) in the Netherlands, where he led significant reforms in pensions, social security, and labour market policies during the Balkenende administrations. His commitment to public service extended to the global stage when he joined the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) as Deputy Secretary-General, spearheading initiatives such as the Green Growth Strategy and “Making Reform Happen.”
In the private and nonprofit sectors, Mr. de Geus has demonstrated exceptional leadership as Chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann Stiftung, where he advanced projects on labour market reforms, European integration, and sustainable development. Additionally, he has held governance roles with Triodos Bank, where he chaired the Supervisory Board, and the Goldschmeding Foundation, focusing on inclusive and sustainable economic practices.
Currently, Mr. de Geus lectures at the Paris School of International Affairs and, starting in 2025, at the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, sharing his deep insights into the dynamics of welfare states. He also holds leadership positions with the Academic Institute of the Christian Democratic Party and EuropaNova, focusing on its Conclave project – an assembly of about 50 European leaders, where he plays a key role in shaping thought leadership in governance and European affairs.
With his extensive experience and a steadfast commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable development, Aart Jan de Geus continues to be a prominent voice in policy innovation and governance.