Gouda Municipality Seeks Policy Officer for Responsible AI Implementation
gouda, woensdag, 6 augustus 2025.
The municipality of Gouda is seeking a policy officer to oversee the responsible implementation of AI in the digital government. This role combines the functions of an AI facilitator and a digitalisation policy officer, where the individual will develop a policy plan, organise workshops, and implement a governance framework. The aim is to create a future-proof and ethically responsible policy, while collaborating with an engaged team to lead the organisation through digital transformation.
Roles and Responsibilities
The new role of policy officer at the municipality of Gouda is twofold. In the first phase, the officer will act as an AI facilitator, chairing the AI expert group, organising workshops and training sessions, drafting a policy plan, and implementing a governance framework. In the second phase, the officer will transition to the role of digitalisation policy officer, responsible for writing and implementing digitalisation policies, advising on digital issues, and contributing to the digital strategy [1].
Objective and Challenges
The objective of this role is to create a responsible, transparent, and future-proof policy for the use of AI within the municipality of Gouda. The officer must not only be technically proficient but also capable of leading people through change and being mindful of the ethical and societal impact of AI. The challenge lies in balancing innovation with responsibility and ensuring that the use of AI benefits all residents of Gouda [1].
Collaboration and Team
The officer will be part of the Information Provision & Automation (INA) team, working closely with information management, digital security, architecture, and innovation. This multidisciplinary approach is crucial for successfully implementing the policy and creating a solid foundation for the municipality’s digital transformation [1].
Qualifications and Offer
Candidates for this role should have a higher vocational (HBO) or university (WO) level education, an affinity with AI and ethical issues, and experience in project-based work. The municipality offers flexible working hours, a modern workplace, sustainable travel expense reimbursement, and an individual choice budget of 17.05%. The salary is up to €6,193 gross per month (scale 11) for a full-time position of 32-36 hours per week, starting with a one-year temporary contract [1].
Context and Urgency
The appointment of a policy officer for responsible AI implementation comes at a time when municipalities in the Netherlands are increasingly investing in digitalisation and AI. The Spring Note has designated 2026 as a ‘trough year’, with €2.3 billion less from the Municipal Fund for municipalities. Despite these financial challenges, the ministry emphasises the need to invest in digitalisation to work more efficiently, reduce costs, and improve service delivery [2].
Practical Examples and Applications
There are already several successful applications of AI in the digital government. AI assists in administrative processes by automating bank reconciliation and processing incoming invoices more efficiently using Machine Learning. AI can also aid in project management by matching employees to the right tasks and making smarter decisions through data analysis. This technology simplifies invoice number coding and adds intelligence to digital processes, enabling faster and better-informed decisions [2].
Benefits and Challenges
The benefits of AI in the digital government are clear: more efficient processes, improved service delivery, and better decision-making. However, there are also challenges, such as privacy concerns, inclusivity, and reliability. It is essential that the use of AI is transparent and responsible, and that the rights and interests of citizens are protected. Additionally, it is important to ensure that AI applications are accessible to diverse groups, including people with disabilities [2].
Investing in the Future
To remain financially stable and administratively agile, municipalities must now invest in digital resilience. This means not only attracting expertise like that of the new policy officer but also investing in the data skills of employees and the flexibility of systems. Wilfried Teunissen, Director Sales Continental Europe – Public Sector at Unit4, states that digitalisation is not a cost but a strategic choice that cannot be delayed any longer [2].
Application and Contact
Interested candidates can apply until 31 August 2025. Applications will be processed within three days after the closing date by the selection committee, which begins with a letter selection. For more information, candidates can contact Lauri Sanders (Team Leader Information Provision) or Alexandra Snouck Hurgronje (HRM Recruiter) [1].