"The Netherlands is quite controlling, the social pressure is big"


Margaret Versteden, CEO at bol, spoke with Het Financieele Dagblad for the summer series ‘A perspective from the outside’ about what it is like to be at the helm of a Dutch company as a CEO with a non-Dutch background.
Over the 24 years Margaret lived and worked in the Netherlands, she has seen the country change. “In many areas, society has developed a healthier and more open attitude. I hope this continues, as it makes this country special. However, I also see increasing polarization. Declining acceptance of LGBTQ+ lives is something I find deeply concerning. I believe in diversity in all its shades. It’s what leads us to new ideas and a better society.”
Our country holds a significant position in the world of innovation and technology. To remain competitive internationally, the Netherlands must maintain and strengthen its strong business and investment climate through solid, predictable, and reliable government policies, especially in the areas of climate and skilled migration.

