Council members
Congratulations on your new role
You've been elected and your commitment is high. But the transition from campaigning to actual council work is a leap into the unknown.
The municipal council is the highest governing body. The files are complex, the political dynamics are fast-moving, and voter expectations are high. How do you navigate the regulations? How do you read a budget? And how do you ensure that you, as a new council member, make an immediate impact?
What will you learn in this training?
In this intensive and practical training, we will immediately start working on the fundamental skills and knowledge you need from day one.
The Essential Knowledge (The 'What'):
The ABC of the Council: The basic structure and the division of roles between the Council, the Board and the Civil Servants.
Rules of Procedure: Understanding the Rules of Procedure, motions, amendments, and asking questions under Article 13.
Finance Deciphered: How to read a budget, annual accounts and a business case so you can effectively keep an eye on the money.
The Political Skills (The 'How'):
File formation and portfolio management: How do you manage a complex portfolio (such as Earthquakes or Education) efficiently and how do you prepare for your council meeting?
The Art of Lobbying: Building a network and effectively influencing decision-making, both inside and outside the council chamber.
Communications and Media Policy: How do you formulate your positions crystal clear and how do you deal with the press and social media?
Why train with me?
As an active council member and policy officer for internationalization at a university of applied sciences, I bring a unique combination of political practice and didactic expertise.
Direct Experience: You'll not only learn the theory, but also gain direct insight into the daily dilemmas and best practices of a council member.
Analytical and Decisive: I teach you to approach complex problems analytically and at the same time take decisive positions.
Driven by Justice: My commitment to a "Groningen for everyone" guarantees training that focuses on the interests of residents and the public interest.
"This training is not a theoretical lesson; it is a toolbox filled with the resources you really need as a council member to make a difference."
Target audience
Newly elected and novice municipal council members (max. 1 year of experience)
Format
Individual coaching or group training (in-house or open enrollment)
Duration
Usually 1 to 3 half days)
Location
In consultation (available in the Groningen/Northern Netherlands region, among others)
CLIENTS
She possesses a positive attitude, is both analytical and decisive, and uses imagination and scenario-based thinking to achieve goals. She's both a thinker and a doer, a strategic partner who's just as happy to sit down with you to sharpen your vision as she is to roll up her sleeves to implement your plans.
She positions herself as a "Growth Partner in the City," one who understands the Groningen mentality of honesty and decisiveness. Her approach combines ambition and authenticity. She focuses on uncovering the client's core story to ensure clarity, measurable impact, and enjoyment in the process.
Her motto is "A Groningen for everyone".
Thinker & doer
Justine (born 1985) was born in the Achterhoek region and came to Groningen as an International Relations student. After a period in England, she returned and settled in the city, drawn by its friendly, cultural, and international atmosphere. She lives in Reitdiep with her family.
She has extensive experience in international education, including as a lecturer in European Studies and currently as an Internationalization Policy Officer at NHL Stenden. She has extensive experience working in international settings and with diverse cultural backgrounds.
Justine has her own company that offers training and services, specializing in: Training for novice council members, Internationalization training and Chairing. Political
Since October 2021, she has been a council member for GroenLinks/PvdA in the municipality of Groningen. Her portfolio includes Earthquakes, Diversity, and Education. Her guiding principles are a welcoming municipality where everyone feels at home and nurturing all talent ("City of Talent").