I was born in 1957. I am married to Annelot and have to sons (who are both university students). I live in the City of Groningen, a university city with over 50.000 students on a total population of 200.000.

As a child, I was raised in our family business which was active in the field of sports, recreation, hospitality and health. In the roaring nineties, I switched to automation, design and software development until 2003. By then I supported companies with their international business development and from I worked and advised as a self-employed manager/consultant many innovative starters and accelerators.
During my career, I gained a lot of experience with various EU projects and became to love international business in the Eastern European countries (as well in the Baltic States and the Balkan countries). As a former expert at EBN, I am constantly aware of the latest innovative developments.

I love a dynamic environment and have no problem with switching quickly between procedures, tasks and jobs. 
Because of my versatile background, my master's degree in England and extensive experience in start-ups and growers, the current job as BIC Drenthe director and innovation advisor at Kennispoort Drenthe (Knowledge Gate) is a perfect fit for me.

Entrepreneurship is my passion and innovation my motive! 
Trust, connecting and enthusiasm mark my way of working.