The Grand Master heads the Royal Household and oversees the Officers of the Household. He advises and represents the King, Queen Máxima and other members of the Royal House, including in contacts with foreign courts and ambassadors.
In addition, he maintains close contacts with the King’s Office and the Government Information Service. The Grand Master is also responsible for overseeing major events like state visits.
History
The first Grand Master was appointed in 1868 by King Willem III. Back then, it was an honorary role, and there were often multiple Grand Masters in the monarch’s service. Over the course of the twentieth century the role gradually changed until, under Queen Beatrix, the Grand Master was tasked with heading the Royal Household.