Supporting Citywide Systems
In his new role as the City’s Enterprise Solutions Manager, Richard oversees a team that supports a wide range of applications used across departments, including public safety systems, community engagement tools, and internal platforms like Munis ERP and Kronos. In addition to managing these systems, he continues to lead the City’s GIS (Geographic Information Systems) efforts, an area that has been central to his career for decades. With a background in geography, Richard discovered GIS as the technology began to emerge, combining his passion for mapping with the growing capabilities of computers. Since then, he has built a career in the field, working internationally before bringing his expertise to the United States and eventually to the City of Wilmington.
Behind-the-Scenes Impact
Much of the work Richard and his team do happens behind the scenes, but it plays a critical role in keeping City operations running smoothly. “A lot of what we do is making other departments work more efficiently,” he said. From assigning every address within city limits to ensuring street names meet 911 safety standards, the GIS team supports essential services that residents may not even realize are happening. Their work helps ensure accuracy, safety, and coordination across departments.
Making a Difference for Residents
The systems and data managed by Richard and his team have a direct impact on daily City services. One example is solid waste collection, where GIS data is used to create efficient trash pickup routes. By optimizing routes, the City is able to reduce costs, save time, and improve service delivery—benefits that ultimately support both residents and taxpayers.
Projects That Stand Out
One project Richard is especially proud of involved tracking vessel traffic under Wilmington’s bridges. Instead of relying on a costly external study, his team used AIS (Automatic Identification System) GPS data from ships to monitor bridge activity. The approach, approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, was the first of its kind in the country and saved the City tens of thousands of dollars. Another major accomplishment was implementing the City’s Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system during COVID. By mapping assets such as park benches, street signs, and lighting infrastructure, departments can now easily locate and maintain critical assets across the city.
A Global Journey
Originally from the Netherlands, Richard built an international career bringing GIS technology to developing regions around the world before relocating to the United States. He recently became a U.S. citizen and cast his vote in his first election earlier this year. Outside of work, he’s a passionate soccer fan and is looking forward to attending an upcoming World Cup match in Dallas.
Finding Purpose in Public Service
For those considering a career with the City, Richard emphasizes the opportunity to do meaningful work. “The City is a great place to work,” he said. “If you want to do work that truly benefits the community, this is the place to be.” Through his leadership in technology and innovation, Richard helps ensure the City of Wilmington operates efficiently, effectively, and with a strong foundation for the future.