The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has implemented a revised leadership structure, transitioning to a Board of Directors comprising one full-time chairman and two part-time members as of January 1, 2026.
Michel Groothuizen continues as chairman under the new framework, while the regulator actively recruits two part-time directors to complete the board. The restructuring responds to increased operational complexity driven by technological advancement and the expansion of illegal gambling markets in the Netherlands.
Expanded Oversight Demands Drive Structural Reform
In its December 22 announcement, the KSA cited growing challenges in licensing, enforcement, and supervisory functions as primary drivers for the governance changes. The regulator identified rapid technological development and the proliferation of unlicensed gambling operations as key factors requiring enhanced strategic capacity.
The two incoming part-time directors will provide specialized expertise in digitalization, governance, and integrity matters, functioning as strategic advisors to Chairman Groothuizen. The board will focus on strategic management and oversight of statutory responsibilities, while operational functions transfer to three newly established directorates.
Operational Structure Divides Core Functions
The KSA’s operational framework now operates through three specialized directorates handling daily regulatory activities:
- Permits & Supervision: Directed by Ella Seijsener from January 1, with Chairman Groothuizen sharing interim director responsibilities
- Player Protection & Board Advice: Led by Roos Lawant beginning February 2026
- Digitalisation, Analysis & Operations: Headed by Daniël Palomo van Es from February 2026
“The directors jointly take on the operational management, while in the new structure the board focuses more emphatically on strategic management, framing and supervision of the performance of the statutory tasks and social goals,” the KSA stated.
Van Buchem Departure Marks Leadership Transition
The structural changes coincide with the departure of vice-president Bernadette van Buchem, who concluded her tenure on January 1 after serving on the KSA board since 2018. Van Buchem’s public sector career spans four decades, including senior positions at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Authority for Consumers and Markets.
“The KSA will miss Bernadette very much. With her departure, the public sector is saying goodbye to an experienced director with a broad track record,” the regulator stated.
Chairman Groothuizen will serve as the sole board member during the transition period until the two part-time directors are appointed. The KSA has not disclosed a specific timeline for completing the board appointments beyond confirming recruitment is underway.
The governance restructuring positions the KSA to address evolving challenges in the Dutch regulated gambling market, particularly regarding illegal operator activity and the integration of emerging technologies in gaming products and platforms.
Source: Kansspelautoriteit
