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Rob Bergmans resigns from Deloitte Netherlands Executive Board

As a result of incidents involving misconduct on exams at audit firms and at the request of AFM, Deloitte initiated an investigation earlier this year into the internal learning culture and learning behaviour of its professionals. This investigation focuses on all mandatory internal and external learning activities over the past five years (period 2018-2023) across the organisation. The investigation covers around 500,000 learning activities of (approx) 8,000 employees in all positions in the Netherlands, as well as ca. 6,000 former employees. As a result of particular facts that have recently emerged from this investigation, Rob Bergmans has decided to step down from his role as member of the Executive Board and to resign from Deloitte as a partner of the firm.

Rotterdam, 16 October 2023

Hans van der Noordaa, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Deloitte Netherlands: "Given Rob has an exemplary role in the organisation, we understand and respect his decision. We thank Rob for his many years of dedication and commitment to Deloitte."

Rob Bergmans: "Based on the most recent insights from the current investigation, I can only conclude that it is not in the benefit of the organisation if I remain in my position as member of the Executive Board and partner of Deloitte. My actions and behaviour as an Executive Board member should never give reason to be questioned in particular in light of the high standards we have at Deloitte, with regards to learning culture and development. I therefore choose to put the interest of the organisation first."

Hans Honig, CEO Deloitte Netherlands: "We deeply regret this development, as quality and professionalism should always be the top priority for all of us. We owe it to our clients and employees, and in particular in light of our societal role. And as painful as it is, we respect and support Rob's decision to step down, as it is made in the interest of the organisation at heart.”

Bergmans' responsibilities will be temporarily taken over by the Executive Board members until the Supervisory Board has completed the selection and appointment procedure for a successor.

About the investigation

The investigation is commissioned by the independent Supervisory Board of Deloitte Netherlands. It was initiated in spring of 2023 and we expect further results and recommendations from this investigation by the end of 2023. Deloitte remains committed to continuous strengthening and improvement of the organisation.