About the Author
SEC Newgate Global Team
Milan/Amsterdam 30 April 2025: SEC Newgate has appointed Peter Coolen as CEO of Wepublic, its Dutch consultancy agency specialising in corporate and public affairs. Coolen will lead the firm’s next phase of growth and development, following SEC Newgate’s acquisition of Wepublic in 2023 which will concentrate on expanding the client base, especially as far as global brands are concerned and further integrating the Dutch PA offering across the Group’s European footprint.
Coolen joins from Weber Shandwick Netherlands where he held senior leadership roles for nearly a decade and led the corporate affairs practice. With close to 20 years of experience across global agencies including Ketchum and Cohn & Wolfe, he brings deep expertise in strategic communications, reputation management and issue advisory for leading international brands.
Wepublic co-CEOs Maaike van Hooidonk and Mark van den Anker will be stepping down to focus on personal projects.
“Peter brings the right mix of ambition, experience and cultural fit to lead the next phase of growth,” said Fiorenzo Tagliabue, CEO of SEC Newgate. “His track record and leadership style align with our values and vision, and we’re confident he will help strengthen our presence in the Netherlands and beyond. I would also like to sincerely thank Maaike and Mark for their contribution to growing Wepublic into a leading force and supporting its integration into the Group.”
Coolen added: “I’m excited to lead Wepublic into this next chapter. Our unique blend of strategic communications and public affairs puts us in a strong position to support clients facing complex societal and reputation challenges. Being part of the SEC Newgate Group adds global reach and expertise, while our Dutch and European roots give us a distinctive edge — especially in today’s shifting geopolitical landscape. I look forward to building on the strong foundation and working with the team to create lasting impact for our clients.”
Wepublic started 2025 with strong commercial momentum, adding new clients and expanding strategic assignments across sectors. The team, based in Amsterdam and The Hague, continues to support both Dutch and international organisations with insights, communications and advocacy services.