Chapter News

• What motivated you to join/continue being part of the PMI NL Board?

I've been a PMI member since 2017, and I joined the board because I believe project management can serve social good, not just business goals. In my work across various sectors like R&D, space development, biotech, and academia, I've seen how projects can make a real difference when designed with purpose. I wanted to bring that perspective to the chapter and help connect our professional community with non-profits, young people, and sustainability initiatives.

• What is your role on the board, and what are you most excited to work on?

I'm the Director of Social Impact and Sustainability. I'm responsible for developing the Chapter's long-term strategy in this area and delivering practical initiatives that involve our members and benefit local communities. What excites me most is bringing those two together: strategic thinking and hands-on work.

• What professional or personal experience do you bring to the board?

Over 15 years in project and program management across quite different sectors: R&D and space, biotech, and academia. In my current role as EU grant advisor at Hogeschool Utrecht, I support innovation projects at the intersection of education, applied research, and digital transformation. Outside my formal roles, I mentor early-career professionals.

• What do you hope PMI NL members gain most from the community?

Above all, genuine connections and a sense of belonging. Life is a series of projects, and we tend to team up with people we actually enjoy working with. In an age where everything moves fast and often feels transactional, I think it's valuable to keep the human touch.

• A fun or human touch: something about you people might not know.

I enjoy traveling, especially to mountains. I've summited both Kilimanjaro and Mount Ararat, unforgettable experiences that taught me about preparation, perseverance, and pacing. And yes, there's a parallel between climbing mountains and managing projects.

• 25 years from now...

I hope project management is taught in primary and secondary schools as a basic life skill, not just a professional one. I'd love to see our kids grow up learning how to break down complex goals, work with others, and adapt to change. And I hope PMI NL is seen as a leader in making that happen.

Newsletter Editor’s Note:  Each board member brings a unique story and perspective. Stay tuned for the next edition, where we’ll spotlight another leader shaping the future of PMI Netherlands.