Wiebe Draijer
Netherlands- Vibeke Dekker: From Engineering to Public Policy
- Engineering Background and Early Career
- Public Service and Thought Leadership
- Appointment as SER Chair
Vibeke Dekker: From Engineering to Public Policy
Born in Enschede, Netherlands, Vibeke Dekker initially aspired to become a journalist. However, her uncle advised her to pursue a more practical profession before entering the journalism field.
Engineering Background and Early Career
Dekker followed her uncle's advice and enrolled in Delft University of Technology in 1983, majoring in mechanical engineering. While studying, she worked as a freelance reporter for NRC Handelsblad. In 1987, she interned at Philips Research Laboratories.
After graduating in 1989, Dekker joined McKinsey & Company as a consultant. She later earned an MBA from INSEAD in Fontainebleau. Dekker soon rose through the ranks, becoming the managing partner for the Netherlands in 2002. In 2006, she was promoted to lead McKinsey's Benelux operations.
Public Service and Thought Leadership
Throughout her time at McKinsey, Dekker held various influential positions in Dutch society. She chaired the Stichting Toekomstbeeld der Techniek, served on the board of trustees of the Kröller-Müller Museum, and was involved in initiatives such as Champs on Stage, Innovatieplatform, and the Education Innovation Network. Dekker also co-founded the website 21minuten.nl, which encourages civic engagement.
Appointment as SER Chair
On June 19, 2012, Dutch Minister of Social Affairs Henk Kamp nominated Dekker as the successor to Alexander Rinnooy Kan as the Chairman of the Social-Economic Council (SER). On July 21, 2012, the SER approved the appointment, which was subsequently endorsed by Queen Beatrix on July 27. Dekker took office on September 1, 2012.
