How the Works Council maintains real influence (far beyond article 25 WOR).

Reorganizations are part of organizations that keep evolving. But for employees, they are often a source of uncertainty. And for works councils (OR)? For them, it’s one of the most intense and defining phases of employee participation. Because it’s precisely in this period that it becomes visible how much influence you as a Works Council […]

The First 90 Days: How to Build Trust Between Executive and Works Council

“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.” — Ernest Hemingway As HR Director at Aegon, I’ve experienced it many times: a new executive or a newly elected works council. The moment new faces appear at the table, a fresh dynamic emerges along with new expectations and, sometimes, […]

Starting a Works Council? 5 opportunities you can’t afford to miss

Growth brings opportunity. For tech, fintech and other scale-ups reaching the 50-employee threshold, establishing a Works Council (WC) isn’t just a legal requirement. It’s a chance to actively involve employees in shaping the organization’s future. A well-functioning Works Council helps organizations make better decisions, strengthen support among employees, and build long-term resilience. But how do […]

Three roles of the Works Council Chair: Setting direction, building influence,and fostering connection

The role of a Works Council Chair is complex You don’t hold a formal leadership position within the council. Everyone is elected, and everyone is equal. And yet, the council often looks to you for direction, structure, and guidance. While you’re not a manager in the traditional sense, much depends on how you shape your […]