Bart van Leeuwen, MA, MSc

Bart van Leeuwen, MA, MSc has a diverse work experience spanning over several decades. Bart began their career as a Parlementair, sociaal-economisch en regioredacteur at Het Vrije Volk in 1982, where they reported on various topics including the widespread strikes in the chemical industry. In 1990, they joined Het Parool as a Parlementair en sociaal-economisch redacteur, focusing on finance, economic, and social affairs.

In 1994, Bart transitioned to the public sector, joining the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment as a Teamleider en woordvoerder. Bart served as a spokesperson for different government officials and subsequently became the leader of the minister's woordvoeringsteam. In 2008, they were promoted to the role of Senior bestuursadviseur, advising the leadership on legislative proposals and policies.

In 2009, Bart shifted to the private sector and joined the Nederlandse Vereniging van Banken as the Hoofd Communicatie. Bart played a key role in transforming the organization into a modern, communicative entity with an emphasis on media relations, innovative digital content, public campaigns, events, and a strong online presence.

Simultaneously, Bart also took on leadership positions in international banking organizations. Bart became the Chairman Communications & CSR Steering Group at the European Banking Federation in 2018, and later took on the role of Chairman for the Media and Reputation Working Group at the International Banking Federation (IBFed) in 2020.

Overall, Bart van Leeuwen's work experience showcases their expertise in communications, public relations, media engagement, and advisory roles in both the public and private sectors.

Bart van Leeuwen, MA, MSc has a diverse education history. Bart began their educational journey by attending the School voor de Journalistiek in Utrecht from 1980 to 1983. However, no specific degree or field of study was mentioned for this period.

Later, from 1996 to 2004, Bart attended the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, where they obtained a drs/M.A. degree in Political Science with a focus on Beleid en bestuur (Policy and governance). Their thesis explored the topic of interactieve beleidsvorming & het politieke primaat (interactive policy formation and political primacy).

Continuing their academic pursuits, Bart attended the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University from 2014 to 2019. During this time, they pursued a Part-time Executive International Master of Science in Corporate Communication (MCC). For their thesis, Bart explored the topic of How to manage Industry Reputation.

In addition to their formal degrees, Bart has acquired several certifications to enhance their expertise and skills. These include Digital Communication, Leiderschap & Coaching, Thought Leadership, Corporate Branding, Leadership and Communication, and Advanced Reputation Management, all obtained from the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University. Bart also participated in study trips and training programs focused on various subjects such as investor relations, management, mediatraining, personal power, strategic communication, summer course in corporate communication, writing speeches, and conducting advisory conversations.

Some additional certifications and training programs were obtained from external institutions, including Frits Philips jr & Partners B.V., Rijksoverheid (for a study trip to New York & Washington, with a visit to the White House), Krauthammer, Hans Kriek, Brainbox, Boertien Vergouwen Overduin, Frans van der Wilt, and Rijks Opleidings Instituut.