Frits Goldschmeding is the founder, former president and CEO of Randstad Holding. Under his leadership the company became one of the largest staffing firms in the world. In March 2011 he stepped down from the company but remains the largest shareholder. On his 80th birthday in 2013, Goldschmeding was awarded the Gold Medal of the City of Amsterdam, the highest honour the city can bestow. The Gold Medal is typically awarded to mayors at the end of their term in office; however, under exceptional circumstances, it is also presented to persons who have made outstanding contributions to Amsterdam. Notable recipients include Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela and Dwight Eisenhower.
