Master's degree in Dutch language and literature (Utrecht University) and in Public Administration (Erasmus University of Rotterdam). Postgraduate in Journalism (University of Applied Sciences Utrecht).  Extensive experience in locale leadership. Pieter had management positions at the municipalities of Leiden, Rotterdam and Alphen aan den Rijn, where he was city manager.  He started his professional career at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pieter is also the Deputy General Director of the Netherlands Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG). Chair of the board of The Hague Academy for local Governance and board member of the VNG Fund for Emergency Aid, Reconstruction and Peace Building.