Coen van Oostrom, a prominent figure in Dutch real estate, has been unanimously appointed the new chairman of VNO-NCW, the largest employers’ organization in the Netherlands. The decision, announced today, will spot Van Oostrom assume the role on May 1, 2026, for a three-year term, succeeding Ingrid Thijssen, who transitioned to the position of chairman of the Board of Governors of TU Delft on March 1st.
The appointment marks a shift in leadership for VNO-NCW, as Van Oostrom brings a background distinct from his predecessor. Currently the executive chairman of Edge Technologies, formerly OVG Real Estate, Van Oostrom intends to dedicate himself full-time to the responsibilities of the VNO-NCW chairmanship, stepping back from his existing business interests. Theo Henrar, vice-chairman of VNO-NCW, described Van Oostrom as possessing “entrepreneurial DNA combined with a great social commitment,” highlighting his experience founding and growing a company as valuable for understanding the needs of VNO-NCW’s diverse membership, ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises to large corporations.
Van Oostrom’s selection follows a unanimous vote by the VNO-NCW board. He expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him, stating his commitment to addressing long-standing issues facing the Netherlands. “The Netherlands has been postponing important issues for too long,” Van Oostrom said, according to a statement released by VNO-NCW. “A healthy business community and a good investment climate are the basis for a socially and economically strong Netherlands and Europe.”
With a personal fortune estimated at 385 million euros by Quote magazine, Van Oostrom is a well-known figure in the Dutch business landscape. He founded Oostrom Vastgoed (OVG) while still a student and has since developed significant properties, including the Maastoren in Rotterdam and The Edge in Amsterdam. He has also been described as a “sustainability knight” by the Financieele Dagblad, advocating for simplified regulations in the construction sector.
Van Oostrom’s political affiliations include being identified as a “green-right” VVD (People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy) supporter. He publicly expressed ambitions to enter politics in 2016 and donated 50,000 euros to the VVD last year. He is expected to focus on improving the investment climate, fostering connections with social partners and the government, and representing Dutch businesses on the European and international stage.
The transition follows Thijssen’s nearly six-year tenure at VNO-NCW. Van Oostrom’s first official engagement as chairman is currently unscheduled, pending internal organizational arrangements.
