Den Haag Invests in Data Projects for Enhanced Governance
The Hague, Friday, 25 April 2025.
Den Haag allocates €5 million for innovative data projects to improve municipal services, aiming for smarter governance and better citizen engagement. Implementation starts mid-2025.
Strategic Data Leadership
The initiative will be led by a newly created position of Manager Financial Administrative Processes and Data, who will oversee the implementation of data-driven strategies across municipal operations [1]. This role will be responsible for developing and implementing municipal-wide financial administrative processes and ensuring data quality, while managing a team of approximately 150 staff members [1]. The position demonstrates Den Haag’s commitment to establishing robust data governance frameworks for future-oriented public administration.
Integration with Central Innovation District
This data initiative aligns with Den Haag’s broader urban development strategy, particularly within the Central Innovation District (CID) [2]. The CID, situated near three major train stations, will serve as a testing ground for many of these data-driven innovations, integrating smart city technologies with urban planning and public services [2]. The municipality plans to implement these data projects as part of its vision to transform the CID into a hub for innovation and sustainable urban development by 2040 [2].
Collaborative Approach to Innovation
A key component of the initiative involves collaboration with leading experts in data governance. Remko van der Burght, Chief Data Officer of Gemeente Den Haag, will play a crucial role in shaping the implementation strategy [3]. The municipality is also organizing knowledge-sharing events, including a significant conference on ‘Governing Information in a Hyper-Connected World’ scheduled for June 13, 2025, which will address challenges in managing information in an increasingly complex environment [3].
Financial Impact and Implementation
The municipality is demonstrating its commitment to digital transformation through comprehensive financial planning. The initiative includes the development of specialized financial dashboards to support project and area controllers in budget monitoring and adjustment [4]. These tools will integrate data from various systems to provide strategic insights and improve financial decision-making processes across municipal departments [4].