Ruud Bakker

Ruud Bakker currently serves as the Gemeentesecretaris and Algemeen Directeur at Gemeente Gouda since October 2021. In addition, Ruud holds several positions including Lid raad van toezicht at PROVSO.WORKS, contributing to the connection between practical school students and employers, and actively participates in the VNG commission focused on participation, debt assistance, and integration since December 2022. As the Voorzitter of the Secretarissenkring Hollands-Midden with the Vereniging van Gemeentesecretarissen and Coördinerend gemeentesecretaris at Hecht, Ruud oversees public health in the region. Moreover, Ruud is the Algemeen Commandant Bevolkingszorg for large-scale crisis management at Veiligheidsregio Hollands Midden. Previously, Ruud held leadership roles at Gemeente Rotterdam, overseeing social support initiatives and safety measures, and has a rich background in social care and criminal justice management. Ruud Bakker is an educated professional with degrees in Sociology and various leadership programs, enabling a comprehensive approach to community welfare and governance.