As the Lead AI & Innovation at Nouryon, I am thrilled to spearhead our company's groundbreaking initiatives in artificial intelligence, with a special focus on Generative AI (GenAI). In this role, I will be coordinating our GenAI steering group to implement and drive Nouryon’s approach to AI.Nouryon is at the forefront of a paradigm shift brought about by GenAI, which we envision will permeate every aspect of our operations. From automating tasks and accelerating product innovation to enhancing workforce efficiency, AI will be integral to our company’s evolution.While we don’t have to implement all the latest new trends, we are leveraging some of the most promising AI technologies, tools, and frameworks. Our approach includes:• Monitoring and evaluating emerging technologies to harness AI’s full potential.• Implementing Responsible AI (RAI) policies to proactively manage risks and prepare for upcoming regulations.• Stimulating behavioral change through targeted communication, highlighting both the benefits and risks of AI.Our efforts in GenAI have already yielded significant results. We have launched an internal AI policy and training programs focused on AI risks, and developed our own internal ChatGPT tool based on Azure OpenAI. This tool has seen a gradual increase in usage, supported by an active user community on Viva Engage.In addition to these achievements, we are advancing several LLM initiatives to unlock knowledge bases on SharePoint, and embarking on projects such as customer sentiment analysis and compliance checks to ensure procedural document consistency.I am excited to lead Nouryon’s AI initiatives, driving innovation and fostering an environment where AI not only enhances our operations but also aligns with our commitment to responsible and ethical practices. Together, we will unlock new possibilities and set a benchmark for AI excellence in our industry.

As the lead for the Nouryon Data Platform, my responsibilities encompass overseeing a team of solution architects, data engineers, PowerBI developers, and data scientists. Together, we ensure the provisioning of certified reports, datasets, and guidelines to facilitate the collaboration of citizen developers and data scientists with enterprise data. Noteworthy achievements in this role include:- Establishing and managing a global, cross-functional governance framework for Reporting, Analytics, and Data initiatives, optimizing the value derived from investments in these areas.- Consolidating specialists from diverse functional areas into a cohesive operational team, fostering collaboration and streamlining processes.- Pioneering the adoption of Agile methodology within the reporting and analytics domain, promoting iterative development and improved responsiveness to evolving requirements.- Designing and implementing the comprehensive roadmap for the Nouryon Data Platform, encompassing various technology stacks such as SAP, Microsoft, and Celonis.Furthermore, I actively contribute to innovative initiatives such as the GenAI working group and the formulation of Nouryon's digital strategies. These engagements reflect my commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and driving transformative initiatives within the organization.

From 2018 to 2020, I held the position of Director of the Center of Excellence (CoE) Digital at Nouryon, following the separation of AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals from AkzoNobel. Given my established reputation at AkzoNobel, it was a natural choice for Nouryon to appoint me to this role. Notable accomplishments during my tenure include:- Establishing the digital CoE, which comprised value domain managers, digital solutions architects, and a digital operations team, ensuring streamlined and efficient digital operations.- Creating and leading the Nouryon Azure Cloud Competence Center, focusing on the design and development of cloud-based solutions to enhance digital capabilities.- Overseeing the design and development of the digital marketing platform, the global corporate website, and the Nouryon customer portal, enabling enhanced digital marketing efforts and improved customer experiences.- Spearheading the design and development of various digital initiatives, including chatbots, mobile apps, and other innovative solutions aimed at driving digital transformation within the organization.During my time as the Director of the CoE Digital, I played a key role in shaping Nouryon's digital landscape and driving the organization's digital strategies forward.After the separation from AkzoNobel, the Nouryon CoE Digital IT team and the digital capabilities were built from scratch. Currently, the Center of Expertise (CoE) Digital IT delivers digital capabilities such as web content management, product information management, an Azure based cloud platform and mobile enablement based on the Microsoft technology stack.

From 2016 to 2017, I served as a Solution Architect Digital and manager eCommerce solutions at AkzoNobel, where my primary responsibility involved leading the design and development of several digital initiatives. Key contributions in this role include:- Spearheading the design and development of a digital marketing platform specifically for the 'International' coatings brand. This platform aimed to enhance marketing efforts and optimize brand visibility in the digital landscape.- Taking charge of the creation of mobile apps that supported sales and distributors, streamlining their processes and providing them with valuable tools to enhance their performance.Additionally, I took the initiative to organize numerous meetings centered around innovation topics such as Blockchain, Chatbots, and IoT. These gatherings fostered knowledge sharing and facilitated the exploration of cutting-edge technologies within the organization.As a Solution Architect Digital, I played a pivotal role in driving digital transformation and leveraging technology to advance AkzoNobel's digital presence and capabilities.

In 2016, I held the position of Program Manager Digital a.i. at Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition. At that time, the Global Digital Team at Danone Nutricia ELN aimed to implement a comprehensive Digital Transformation across all markets. This transformation involved the deployment of a collaboratively developed suite of digital capabilities, enabling Danone Nutricia ELN to effectively support the entire customer journey.As an interim Program Manager, my primary responsibility was to supervise the initial project rollouts on the Global Technology Platform, which was built on the Adobe Marketing Cloud. This involved coordinating and overseeing the implementation of these projects, ensuring they aligned with the broader digital strategy and objectives of Danone Nutricia ELN.In this role, I played a important part in driving the digital transformation efforts and laying the foundation for the successful adoption of digital capabilities to enhance customer experiences within Danone Nutricia ELN.

From 2012 to 2015, I held the role of Senior Manager Digital Marketing Systems & Operations (Webcentre) ]at HEINEKEN International NV. In this position, I had the responsibility of overseeing digital marketing systems and operations, as well as executing digital campaigns. Notable achievements during my tenure include:- Managing the demand from Global Marketing, overseeing a project portfolio valued at 3 million Euros. This involved effectively prioritizing and delivering digital projects to meet global marketing objectives.- Providing leadership in defining and maintaining the overall digital architecture to support various global brands within HEINEKEN. This entailed ensuring seamless integration and efficient functioning of digital platforms.- Managing the operations team and vendor ecosystem, overseeing the budget of 3 million Euros dedicated to supporting digital platforms. This involved effective vendor management, financial control, and resource allocation.- Leading a team of 20 digital marketing consultants and project managers within the Webcentre, fostering a culture of feedback and collaboration to drive high-performance outcomes.- Ensuring operational excellence in financial control, including project control, chargeability, and adherence to budgetary constraints.- Sharing insights and expertise as a speaker at the Microsoft Build conference in 2013 and the Microsoft Convergence conference in 2015, highlighting HEINEKEN's innovative digital initiatives.During my time at HEINEKEN International, I played a key role in driving the digital marketing efforts and enhancing the digital presence of global brands.

From 2008 to 2012, I served as the Technical Director at XEED, a company specializing in marketing consultancy, marketing automation, and marketing services. In this role, my primary focus was on overseeing operations and technology-related aspects within XEED. Noteworthy accomplishments during this period include:- Designing and implementing CRM-integrated Content Management Systems (MS Dynamics CRM - Umbraco CMS) for a museum. This involved creating a seamless integration between customer relationship management and content management, enhancing the museum's digital presence and customer engagement.- Creating and implementing a Loyalty platform utilizing MS Commerce Server. This platform aimed to drive customer loyalty and enhance the overall customer experience by providing personalized rewards and incentives.- Leading the design and implementation of various Campaign Management implementations using platforms such as Selligent and Clang. These implementations enabled efficient management and execution of marketing campaigns, enhancing campaign effectiveness and customer targeting.- Designing and implementing Marketing Resource Management systems, streamlining marketing operations, and optimizing resource allocation and utilization.- Establishing an offshore development unit in Eastern Europe, effectively utilizing offshore resources to enhance development capabilities and improve operational efficiency.During my tenure as the Technical Director at XEED, I played a crucial role in delivering innovative marketing solutions and optimizing operational efficiency through the application of technology and strategic implementations.

As a Technical Director of Lost Boys, a prominent full-service digital agency in the Netherlands, I achieved significant milestones during my tenure, including:- Successfully overseeing a diverse and talented team of 50 digital professionals. Through effective leadership and collaboration, we delivered high-quality digital solutions to our clients, exceeding their expectations and driving positive business outcomes.- Conducting a comprehensive reorganization of both the technical department and service department within Digital LBi. This strategic initiative aimed to optimize operations, streamline processes, and enhance overall efficiency and client satisfaction.By implementing these changes, we were able to improve team dynamics, foster cross-functional collaboration, and establish a more efficient workflow. These efforts ultimately contributed to the agency's continued success in delivering exceptional digital services to our clients.

From 1999 to 2005, I served as a Client Partner at Clockwork, a prominent full-service digital agency in Amsterdam. During my time there, I played a significant role in the company's growth, taking it from a team of 12 to 150 professionals within a span of six years. Key achievements during this period include:- Establishing and developing the web development department, specializing in Java and .NET technologies. Under my leadership, the team grew to include 15-20 skilled developers, enabling Clockwork to deliver high-quality web development projects for clients.- Building and refining the project management discipline within the company, incorporating methodologies such as Prince2 and Agile. Through these efforts, we established a team of 15-20 project managers who successfully delivered projects on time and within budget.- Cultivating a strong and enduring relationship with an offshore development team located in Eastern Europe, which now operates as www.levi9.com. This collaboration allowed us to leverage offshore resources effectively and enhance our delivery capabilities.- Taking charge of portfolio management, overseeing the simultaneous execution of 150 projects. This involved strategic planning, resource allocation, and ensuring efficient project delivery across the organization.- Acting as the client partner for several key accounts, including Postbank and Amsterdam RAI, nurturing strong relationships and providing strategic guidance to meet their digital needs and objectives.During my tenure as a Client Partner at Clockwork, I played a vital role in driving the company's growth, expanding its capabilities, and delivering successful digital solutions to a diverse range of clients.

Cimsolutions provides high quality professional ICT consulting services and software development solutions. Main achievements:- At ECN (Dutch Energy Research Center), designed and implemented a system for the real-time processing of wind turbines data (C++ ActiveX control, VB). - At Organon Teknika, designed an object oriented system for a robotically managed sampling system for blood samples.- Developed in-house training on Object Orientation.

Consultant Workflow and Imaging.Main achievements:- Implemented multiple Workflow and Imaging systems at financial institutions.- Started a competence center on Internet technologies.

Created and maintained an ERP system ‘avant la lettre’ for a metal construction company using Clipper, dBase and Novell Netware. This system has been in use continuously until 1999 when it was finally replaced by another system.