Born in 1965 in the Netherlands, Jan van Zanen has dedicated his career to public service. Before becoming Mayor of The Hague, he served as the Mayor of Utrecht from 2014 to 2020, where he was instrumental in urban development projects and enhancing the city’s cultural scene. In The Hague, Mayor van Zanen continues to focus on improving urban infrastructure, fostering international diplomacy, and promoting social cohesion within the community.
Mayor van Zanen holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Leiden University. His professional journey includes various roles in local and national government, where he has been recognized for his pragmatic approach to governance and his ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Since his appointment, Mayor van Zanen has prioritized sustainable urban development, aiming to make The Hague a more livable and environmentally friendly city. He has also strengthened the city’s position as a hub for international law and diplomacy, leveraging its unique status as the seat of numerous international courts and organizations. Under Mayor Jan van Zanen’s leadership, The Hague continues to thrive as a dynamic, inclusive, and globally connected city.
The Hague, a city renowned for its international legal institutions, is presided over by the Mayor, who serves as the chief executive of the municipal government. As of March 2025, the Mayor is Jan van Zanen, who assumed office in July 2020.
Own or work here?