Jan Helmond has asked the King to grant him retirement as interim Kingdom Representative effective January 1, 2027. Although his appointment legally continues until he reaches the age of seventy (70), he has chosen to step down earlier. Until that time, he will continue to tirelessly commit himself to the interests of the citizens and governments in the Caribbean Netherlands and the Kingdom. After this period, he will apply his knowledge and experience extensively from an independent position as a networker/advisor within the Kingdom, operating through his own company.
Jan Helmond: “After serving in this position for nine (9) years, the time has come for someone else to take over. It is also a natural moment because the discussion regarding the renewal of the WolBES and FinBES will likely desire a different type of official. In recent years, I have experienced intense moments such as reconstruction after hurricanes, COVID, many changes of government, and the administrative intervention in Sint Eustatius. But I have also seen wonderful initiatives that have contributed to the well-being of the citizens on the islands. A lot has improved, but there is still much more to be done.”