PromZ Vak 3 · 2024

Custom promotional products

25 years of experience in importing customized promotional products

Out of the comfort zone, being open to the new and cherishing the old

Never get bored Do you take your work home with you?

“Yes, always. Not so much that I am constantly on the laptop at home, but in my head, I am almost always busy with it. But I try to ensure that I can be at most of my children's hockey matches on the weekends, for example.”

Can you tell us something about your life outside of work?

“I have been living with my wife in Eindhoven for about 25 years. I met her during my business administration studies, and she has also held various management positions. She also does work for various good causes. We are both regularly working late into the evening. We don't get bored easily… We have a 20-year-old daughter who lives in Amsterdam and, besides participating in a vibrant student life, is pursuing an HBO study. Our 18-year-old son still lives at home.”

What are your hobbies?

“I enjoy running and cycling. I also like golfing, which I regularly do with my wife. Managing is a top sport, so you really need something to recharge.”

What gives you energy?

“I can quietly enjoy it very much when what I have tried to come up with with the team becomes a reality. And then it’s not a matter of determining the course from above, but it has become ‘embedded knowledge’ through collaboration and research. I also get enthusiastic when sparring with young people about the new innovative possibilities the market offers. For example, I was one of the first with a Tesla, and I was already working with social media like Instagram in 2011. I see new possibilities, and that gives me positive energy.”

Do you have any idea how long you will stay at Plato Group?

“There is still enough to do here and enough challenge. That makes it fun for me. I also have to be careful not to fall into a comfort zone. You need to have that attitude; otherwise, you only make popular decisions or avoid discussions. I am passionate about this company, and, for example, I can lie awake at night if something is not going well. I keep looking for ways to improve things. In short, I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that Plato Group and its brands will offer me in the coming period!”