Hendrikus Wilhelmus Maria “Dick” Schoof, born on 8 March 1957 in Santpoort, is a Dutch politician and civil servant who has held the position of Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs since 2024.
Education and early career
Schoof studied law at Radboud University Nijmegen, where he developed his interest in public administration and public order.
Career in government
After his studies, Schoof started his career at the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), where he held various management positions. In 2010, he was appointed National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV), a role in which he was responsible for national security and crisis management.
In 2020, Schoof was appointed Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice and Security, the highest civil service position within the ministry.
Political career
In 2024, Schoof was nominated as Prime Minister in a cabinet led by the Party for Freedom (PVV). His appointment was seen as a step towards a more pragmatic and less ideological approach to the premiership.
Personal life
Schoof is unmarried and has two children.
His long and diverse career within the Dutch government has given him a deep insight into the functioning of the state and the challenges in the field of security and governance.