Mariëlle Paul

Biography

“A country in which everyone is free to live their life to the fullest”

In 2021, I made the switch to national politics after 30 years in the corporate sector. It was an exciting move, and I have not regretted it one bit so far. As an MP, I have had the chance to help the victims of the childcare benefits scandal. Meeting them made a deep impression on me and I strongly believe that the government is responsible for fixing its mistakes. My affinity for business helped me tremendously as the spokesperson for Foreign Trade, on top of which I also served as the chairwoman of the Standing Committee on Kingdom Relations and acting chairwoman of the Temporary Committee on the Covid-19 pandemic.

Great honour

Most people probably know me as the education spokesperson for the VVD group until July 2023; after that, I went to work as outgoing minister for Primary and Secondary Education. Fighting for good education is a great honour: we have to make sure we have all the teachers we need and that all pupils have excellent reading, writing and maths skills. At the same time, it is also important to take action against schools that do not respect our values or do not provide a safe environment for our children.

Staying fit

I prefer to spend my free time with family and friends. I enjoy good food and a good glass of wine. To stay fit, I go the gym every week and I love recharging by going on long walks.

Education

• International Law, Universiteit Leiden, Leiden 1985-1991

Career

• Global Director Communications, Royal BAM Group, 2017 - 2021
• Global Director of Communications a.i, Porticus, 2015-2016
• Director Corporate & Sales Communications, Sanoma Media, 2013-2015
• Various management positions in the field of marketing, communications and human resources, ABN AMRO, 2004-2013
• Co-owner and senior consultant, Principal Communications, 2000-2004
• Group Director Corporate Communications, Hill & Knowlton, 1997-2000
• Various (management) functions, BP, 1991-1997