Jürgen Krogmann: Oldenburg's Mayor, New President & More!

Laverna Zemlak 13 May 2025

Ever wondered how leadership transitions shape the future of cities and states? The recent election of Jürgen Krogmann as the new President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities (NST) marks a pivotal moment, poised to influence regional policy and urban development significantly.

On Thursday, September 5th, in Salzgitter, Jürgen Krogmann (SPD), the Mayor of Oldenburg, was elected as the new President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities (NST). Krogmann succeeds Frank Klingebiel (CDU), the Mayor of Salzgitter, in this honorary position. Klingebiel will now serve as the Vice President. This transition reflects the standard practices within the association, ensuring a smooth continuation of leadership. Krogmann's ascent to the presidency signals a renewed focus on the challenges and opportunities facing Lower Saxony's urban centers. His proven track record in Oldenburg positions him well to advocate for policies that promote sustainable growth, innovation, and citizen well-being across the region.

Jürgen Krogmann's political journey is characterized by a deep commitment to public service and a keen understanding of local governance. Before assuming the presidency of the NST, Krogmann served as a member of the Landtag of Lower Saxony from 2008 to 2014. Since November 2014, he has been the Mayor of Oldenburg, where he has focused on investing in schools and education, creating housing, and promoting active citizen participation. His re-election as Mayor on Sunday, September 26, 2021, in a runoff election against Daniel Fuhrhop (an independent nominated by the Greens), underscores his strong support within the community. Krogmann's ability to connect with voters and address their concerns has solidified his position as a respected and effective leader in Oldenburg.

Frank Klingebiel, the outgoing President and incoming Vice President, expressed confidence in the new leadership, stating, "We will continue to work well together as a team." This sentiment highlights the collaborative spirit within the NST, where leaders from different political backgrounds come together to address common challenges and advance the interests of their cities. The partnership between Krogmann and Klingebiel is expected to bring a balanced approach to regional governance, leveraging their respective strengths and experiences to benefit the entire association.

Krogmann's election as President of the NST is particularly significant given the current landscape of urban development and regional policy in Lower Saxony. As cities grapple with issues such as climate change, infrastructure development, and social inequality, the NST plays a crucial role in shaping the dialogue and advocating for effective solutions. Krogmann's leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to these challenges, drawing on his experience in Oldenburg to promote innovative approaches and best practices. His focus on sustainable growth and citizen engagement aligns with the broader goals of the NST, ensuring that Lower Saxony's cities remain vibrant and livable for years to come.

The Lower Saxon Association of Cities serves as a vital platform for municipalities to collaborate, share knowledge, and advocate for their interests at the state level. By providing a unified voice for cities, the NST ensures that urban perspectives are considered in policy-making decisions. The association's activities range from organizing conferences and workshops to conducting research and lobbying for legislative changes. Through its various initiatives, the NST helps cities navigate complex challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth and development. The election of Jürgen Krogmann as President is a testament to the association's commitment to strong leadership and effective governance.

Jürgen Krogmann's commitment to Oldenburg extends beyond his political role. He actively engages with the community, participating in local events and initiatives. His presence on social media, where he shares updates and interacts with citizens, reflects his dedication to transparency and accessibility. Krogmann's approach to leadership is rooted in the belief that cities should be inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of their residents. This philosophy is evident in his policies and initiatives, which prioritize education, housing, and environmental protection. As President of the NST, he is expected to bring this same commitment to the broader region of Lower Saxony.

The challenges facing Lower Saxony's cities are diverse and complex, ranging from economic development and infrastructure investment to social integration and environmental sustainability. As President of the NST, Jürgen Krogmann will play a crucial role in shaping the response to these challenges. His leadership will be instrumental in fostering collaboration among cities, promoting innovative solutions, and advocating for policies that support sustainable growth and citizen well-being. With his experience, vision, and commitment to public service, Krogmann is well-positioned to lead the NST into a new era of progress and prosperity.

The election of Jürgen Krogmann as President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities marks a significant milestone in the region's political landscape. His leadership is expected to bring a renewed focus on the challenges and opportunities facing urban centers, promoting sustainable growth, innovation, and citizen well-being. As he takes on this new role, Krogmann is poised to make a lasting impact on Lower Saxony's cities, ensuring that they remain vibrant and livable for generations to come.

Before entering politics, Jürgen Krogmann cultivated a diverse background in media and academia. Born on November 14, 1963, in Steinfeld, he pursued studies in history and German language and literature at the universities of Cologne and Oldenburg. From 1989 to 1993, he worked as a reporter and moderator for Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR), a public broadcaster in northern Germany, covering regional news and current affairs in Oldenburg and Hanover. This experience honed his communication skills and deepened his understanding of local issues, laying the groundwork for his future career in public service.

Krogmann's transition from journalism to politics reflects a desire to directly influence policy and shape the future of his community. His decision to enter the Landtag of Lower Saxony in 2008 marked a turning point, providing him with a platform to advocate for the interests of his constituents at the state level. During his tenure in the Landtag, Krogmann focused on issues such as education, regional development, and environmental protection. His ability to build consensus and navigate complex legislative processes earned him the respect of his colleagues and solidified his reputation as an effective advocate for the people of Lower Saxony.

Since assuming the role of Mayor of Oldenburg in November 2014, Jürgen Krogmann has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and promoting sustainable growth. His administration has prioritized investments in schools and education, recognizing the importance of providing children and young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Krogmann has also focused on creating affordable housing options, addressing the growing demand for housing in Oldenburg and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and secure homes. His commitment to environmental protection is evident in the city's efforts to promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and preserve green spaces.

Krogmann's re-election as Mayor in September 2021 underscores his strong support within the Oldenburg community. Despite facing a challenge from Daniel Fuhrhop, an independent candidate nominated by the Greens, Krogmann secured a decisive victory in the runoff election. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence that residents have in his leadership, as well as their appreciation for his vision for the future of Oldenburg. As he embarks on his second term as Mayor, Krogmann is committed to building on his previous successes and addressing the ongoing challenges facing the city.

In addition to his political and professional accomplishments, Jürgen Krogmann is known for his approachable demeanor and genuine interest in the well-being of his community. He actively engages with residents through town hall meetings, social media, and other channels, seeking their input and addressing their concerns. His willingness to listen and respond to the needs of the community has earned him the respect and admiration of residents from all walks of life. Krogmann's leadership style is characterized by transparency, collaboration, and a deep commitment to public service.

As President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities, Jürgen Krogmann will have the opportunity to extend his influence and impact beyond the boundaries of Oldenburg. The NST serves as a crucial platform for municipalities to collaborate, share knowledge, and advocate for their interests at the state level. Krogmann's leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the challenges facing Lower Saxony's cities, promoting innovative solutions and fostering collaboration among municipalities. His focus on sustainable growth, citizen engagement, and effective governance will help ensure that Lower Saxony's cities remain vibrant and livable for years to come.

The election of Jürgen Krogmann as President of the NST is a testament to his leadership skills, his commitment to public service, and his vision for the future of Lower Saxony's cities. As he takes on this new role, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the region, promoting sustainable growth, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that cities remain vibrant and livable for generations to come. His experience, vision, and dedication to the well-being of his community make him an ideal leader for the Lower Saxon Association of Cities.

The collaborative spirit within the Lower Saxon Association of Cities is exemplified by the seamless transition between outgoing President Frank Klingebiel and incoming President Jürgen Krogmann. Klingebiel's willingness to serve as Vice President reflects his commitment to the association and his desire to support Krogmann in his new role. This partnership between two experienced and respected leaders is expected to bring a balanced approach to regional governance, leveraging their respective strengths and experiences to benefit the entire association. Their collaboration will be essential in addressing the complex challenges facing Lower Saxony's cities and ensuring that the region remains competitive and prosperous.

The Lower Saxon Association of Cities plays a critical role in shaping the dialogue on urban development and regional policy in Lower Saxony. By bringing together representatives from municipalities across the state, the NST provides a forum for sharing best practices, discussing common challenges, and advocating for effective solutions. The association's activities range from organizing conferences and workshops to conducting research and lobbying for legislative changes. Through its various initiatives, the NST helps cities navigate complex issues such as climate change, infrastructure development, and social inequality. The election of Jürgen Krogmann as President is a testament to the association's commitment to strong leadership and effective governance.

The challenges facing Lower Saxony's cities are diverse and complex, reflecting the unique circumstances of each municipality. Some cities are grappling with declining populations and aging infrastructure, while others are experiencing rapid growth and increased demand for housing and services. As President of the NST, Jürgen Krogmann will need to address these challenges with a comprehensive and nuanced approach, recognizing the diverse needs and priorities of different cities. His leadership will be instrumental in fostering collaboration among cities, promoting innovative solutions, and advocating for policies that support sustainable growth and citizen well-being.

Jürgen Krogmann's election as President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities is not only a recognition of his past accomplishments but also a vote of confidence in his ability to lead the association into the future. As he takes on this new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a clear vision for the future, and a deep commitment to public service. His leadership is expected to bring a renewed focus on the challenges and opportunities facing urban centers in Lower Saxony, promoting sustainable growth, innovation, and citizen well-being. With his guidance, the NST is poised to continue its important work of supporting and advocating for cities across the state.

The role of the Mayor in modern urban governance is increasingly complex, requiring a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of local issues. Jürgen Krogmann's background in media, academia, and politics has prepared him well for this challenge. His experience as a reporter and moderator has honed his communication skills, allowing him to effectively engage with residents and convey his vision for the future. His academic background has provided him with a strong foundation in history and social sciences, enabling him to analyze complex issues and develop informed policy solutions. And his years of experience in the Landtag and as Mayor of Oldenburg have given him a deep understanding of the political process and the challenges of governing a city.

As President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities, Jürgen Krogmann will have the opportunity to shape the dialogue on urban development and regional policy at the state level. His leadership will be instrumental in promoting innovative solutions to the challenges facing Lower Saxony's cities and ensuring that the region remains competitive and prosperous. His focus on sustainable growth, citizen engagement, and effective governance will help ensure that Lower Saxony's cities remain vibrant and livable for generations to come. With his experience, vision, and dedication to the well-being of his community, Krogmann is well-positioned to lead the NST into a new era of progress and prosperity.

The transition from Frank Klingebiel to Jürgen Krogmann as President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities represents a changing of the guard, but also a continuation of the association's commitment to strong leadership and effective governance. Klingebiel's willingness to serve as Vice President ensures that his experience and expertise will continue to benefit the association, while Krogmann's fresh perspective and innovative ideas will help the NST adapt to the changing needs of Lower Saxony's cities. This partnership between two experienced and respected leaders is expected to bring a balanced approach to regional governance, leveraging their respective strengths and experiences to benefit the entire association.

The Lower Saxon Association of Cities serves as a vital link between municipalities and the state government, ensuring that the voices of cities are heard in policy-making decisions. By providing a unified platform for cities to collaborate, share knowledge, and advocate for their interests, the NST helps to shape the direction of urban development and regional policy in Lower Saxony. The association's activities range from organizing conferences and workshops to conducting research and lobbying for legislative changes. Through its various initiatives, the NST helps cities navigate complex issues such as climate change, infrastructure development, and social inequality.

Jürgen Krogmann's election as President of the Lower Saxon Association of Cities is a recognition of his past accomplishments, his leadership skills, and his commitment to public service. As he takes on this new role, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the region, promoting sustainable growth, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that cities remain vibrant and livable for generations to come. His experience, vision, and dedication to the well-being of his community make him an ideal leader for the Lower Saxon Association of Cities.