Rud Pedersen Netherlands welcomes Joep Kievits as Co-Managing Director

On 1 March, Joep Kievits joined Rud Pedersen Netherlands as Co-Managing Director. Together with Managing Director Marije Laffeber, he will form the Dutch management team, jointly leading the continued development and growth of the firm in the Netherlands.

In 2025, Marije led the successful transformation of Issuemakers into Rud Pedersen Group and ensured the firm’s strong integration into the European business. Under Marije’s leadership, the firm’s focus has shifted towards public affairs and strategic communications, enabling clients in the Netherlands to seamlessly connect with Rud Pedersen’s other offices across Europe. Joep’s appointment enhances the company’s public affairs expertise and insider experience in the Netherlands, allowing the office to further expand its offer of senior strategic advice rooted in local knowledge.

Joep comes from public affairs agency EPPA in The Hague, where he was a Managing Consultant. He brings more than 17 years of experience in public affairs, lobbying, stakeholder management and strategic communications in the Netherlands.

Before joining EPPA, he was a Senior Director at public affairs agency IvCB and, prior to that, Founder and Managing Director of public affairs agency MagnifEye. Before his management roles in public affairs firms, he held senior positions at various leading firms, was Head of the Department of public affairs at the municipality of Amsterdam, and public affairs advisor at Maastricht University. Joep was also involved in a national political party for several years and began his career as a civil servant at the former Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture, and Innovation (EL&I).

Morten Rud Pedersen, CEO & President of Rud Pedersen commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Joep to the leadership team of Rud Pedersen Netherlands. His portfolio of experiences will help clients navigate the dynamic Dutch market and all our markets across Europe.”

Commenting on joining Rud Pedersen in the Netherlands, Joep said

“In my work, I’m motivated by the challenge of balancing ambition with what’s achievable. I look forward to working with the Rud Pedersen team to translate our clients’ wishes into smart strategies with maximum return.”

Welcoming Joep, Marije said “With his extensive experience in public affairs in the Netherlands, we see Joep as a valuable addition to our team. We look forward to working together and further strengthening our position in the Dutch and European markets.”