The Dutch central bank, known as De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), is set to cut 290 full-time positions as it embarks on a reorganisation strategy to mitigate costs. This reduction in workforce will predominantly be achieved through the natural expiration of contracts, thus avoiding, as much as possible, mandatory layoffs. The departments expected to be most affected by this restructuring include IT, Finance, Human Resources, and Communications.
By 2030, DNB aims to downsize its staff to approximately 2,090 full-time employees. This move forms part of a broader initiative that also involves curbing external recruitment and implementing additional cost-reduction measures. Collectively, these efforts are projected to yield savings exceeding €70 million. Despite the financial constraints posed by increasing wages and rising prices, DNB is determined to maintain its budget at the same level in 2030 as it anticipates for 2025.
Since 2020, DNB’s budget has seen a notable rise, climbing to €576 million. This escalation has been attributed to an array of factors, including the assumption of new legal responsibilities, wage increases, inflation, and the necessity for emergency IT infrastructure investments. Additionally, the bank has incurred costs due to the temporary relocation of its staff, a measure taken during the extensive renovation of its headquarters.
As DNB transitions to the implementation phase of its reorganisation plans, employees have been briefed on the changes. This follows consultations with the bank’s works council, ensuring that staff are informed and prepared for the upcoming adjustments.