PostNL, the leading postal and package service provider in the Netherlands, is preparing for a significant leadership transition. The company, based in The Hague, announced that Herna Verhagen will step down as CEO after the Annual General Meeting on April 15, 2025. Her decision comes after over a decade of leading the organization. Pim Berendsen, currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, has been chosen to take over the role. This leadership transition aims to maintain PostNL’s strategic continuity and further its operations in the rapidly evolving postal sector.
Verhagen’s leadership tenure has seen the company navigating through evolving industry challenges and changes. Herna has been pivotal in steering PostNL’s direction, with a focus on adapting to market demands and enhancing logistics capabilities. Compared to previous transitions in the company’s history, this planned succession underscores a strategic move to ensure stability and continued growth, reflecting the company’s commitment to internal development and leadership sustainability.
Who is Pim Berendsen?
Currently holding the position of CFO, Pim Berendsen has been recognized for his substantial contributions to PostNL. He is expected to bring his strategic insight and experience to the CEO position. With the backing of the Employee Council, Berendsen’s appointment has received a positive response, marking a seamless transition. In the lead-up to his new role, Berendsen will work closely with Herna Verhagen to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.
What’s Next for PostNL’s Executive Board?
The Supervisory Board is actively engaged in the search for a successor to fill the CFO position, prioritizing the appointment of a female executive. This move reflects PostNL’s dedication to gender diversity within its leadership structure. The Board aims to complete this transition before Berendsen takes over as CEO in April next year, ensuring that the executive team remains fully equipped to tackle future challenges.
Jan Nooitgedagt, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, commented on the transition, emphasizing the achievements under Verhagen’s leadership and expressing confidence in Berendsen’s capability to continue advancing the company’s goals.
“Herna is an exceptional leader in a challenging sector in transition. Under her leadership, PostNL has developed into a committed and responsible employer,”
he stated, acknowledging Pim’s extensive market knowledge and strategic acumen.
PostNL stands as the Netherlands’ largest postal service provider, managing a vast network of service points and delivery mechanisms. The company handles millions of parcels and letters daily across the Benelux region, providing essential services and logistics solutions for both domestic and international markets. This transition in leadership is positioned to support its robust operational framework and forward-looking strategic objectives.
This leadership change comes as PostNL continues to adapt to shifts in the postal service industry, including the rise of e-commerce and digital communication. As Pim Berendsen steps into the CEO role, he brings a wealth of experience that will be crucial in navigating the complex landscape of logistics and delivery services. His appointment is expected to foster innovation and drive efficiencies, supporting PostNL’s mission to remain a leader in the sector.
