Co-founder & optimist, building next better
Can you feel it too? That profound shift in the world. A quiet hum turning into a roar. It’s the move away from the old game of profit at all costs and toward a future where the most vibrant, successful brands are the ones with people and our living planet at their very heart. My work isn't just about watching this change happen. It's about standing right in the middle of it, helping to shape it human by human, team by team.
A quiet rebellion of the heart
My professional mission is deeply personal. Being a proud father of three living in the heart of Amsterdam, I believe life is about being happy, healthy, and inspired. This philosophy fuels everything. I see movement as a remedy for almost anything. My daily cycle ride through the city, the discipline of long-distance endurance sports, or the focused flow of skiing - a passion that even led me to train as an instructor- all of it sharpens the clarity and energy I bring to our work.
From systems to soul
My path here wasn't a straight line. It began with a foundation in the military, serving as a Cavalry officer in Germany. Further education in business administration carried me to into the heart of global corporations like Mars, P&G, and BAT. Through long expat postings in France, Indonesia, and Italy, I learned the global business playbook from the inside. Yet, I felt a growing pull toward something more meaningful. In 2000, I began my entrepreneurial journey in brand consulting, and in 2005, the true catalyst arrived when I met my business partner, Kim Cramer. That friendship sparked what is now a 20-year shared mission to turn business into a force for good.
A journey from words to worlds
This shared belief in the human side of business is brought to life through the three ventures we've co-founded:
BR-ND People – A creative change agency and B Corp, where we partner with teams to build brand cultures that are a true force for good.
The 23plusone Collective – Our science-based and playful method that unlocks wellbeing and connection through the universal language of values.
Let's Play Equal – A profound experience that uses serious gaming to turn complex conversations about inclusion into tangible, heartfelt action.
Ultimately, this is about helping shape cultures where people do not just survive, but truly thrive. It’s a journey of turning quiet potential into vibrant performance. If you feel that same pull to build something that truly matters, I would love to connect. Let's explore how we can build next better, together.