Property developer Coen van Oostrom will become chairman of the Netherlands’ biggest employers’ organisation VNO-NCW on May 1, succeeding Ingrid Thijssen.

Van Oostrom is currently chairman of innovative real estate company Edge and will distance himself from his business interests while working full time for the organisation, the VNO-NCW said.

His priorities will include improving the Netherlands’ investment climate and strengthening cooperation with trade unions and the government. He will also represent Dutch industry internationally.

“For too long the Netherlands has been delaying important decisions,” Van Oostrom said in a statement. “A healthy industry and a good investment climate are the basis for a strong Netherlands and Europe, both socially and economically.”

The Financieele Dagblad reported that Van Oostrom helped write the VVD election manifesto and had been mentioned as a possible minister.

Van Oostrom set up his property company OVG, now known as Edge Technologies, when he was 27 and is said to be worth €385 million according to business magazine Quote. He has made sustainable development a key part of his property empire ethos.