Eighth-generation owner Michiel de Haan said the business is “very happy” with Madeline’s leadership and welcomed her as a minority shareholder. He added that the positive performance trend seen in 2024 continued into 2025, and that the company is looking to the future with confidence. 

Madeline described the move as a proud moment, noting her roots as an  “Alblasserdam entrepreneur’s daughter” and her long connection to the business. She first joined De Haan during her studies in 2007, calling herself a “child of De Haan”. 

The announcement reflects De Haan’s focus on continuity and long-term stewardship, combining multi-generational family ownership with experienced executive leadership.  

Phoeo: Madeline van der Rhee with Michiel de Haan, with a painting of Madeline’s father, Wim de Haan, in the background.