How did you come up with the idea to become a REC Impact Fellow at UvA?

'My journey at UvA has been a dual evolution. I began at Science Park, mastering the complexities of Quantum Physics (MSc), and later moved to the Amsterdam Business School (MBA) to learn how to translate that science into societal value. During my career at ASML and as a startup coach, I noticed a persistent gap: brilliant deep-tech research often struggles to find its way to market impact. I decided to become a REC Impact Fellow to 'close the loop'—returning to the UvA community to serve as a strategic bridge, helping researchers and students navigate the 'Valley of Death' between a lab prototype and a scalable, purpose-driven venture.'

What was your first experience on campus?

'My first experience was the rigorous, data-driven world of the Physics labs. It taught me the 'how' of innovation. However, my most transformative experience was walking onto the Roeterseiland Campus for my MBA. Seeing the intersection of law, economics, and social sciences made me realize that technical excellence is only half the battle; real impact requires a deep understanding of human systems and market strategy. This transition from a specialist at Science Park to a strategist at REC is what defines my professional identity today.'

What is your 'Impact Project' or focus for this Fellowship?

'My focus is the 'Deep-Tech Impact Framework.' Leveraging my background in R&D Commercialization and my current work as an Executive Leadership Mentor, I want to develop a series of clinics for UvA spin-offs. These sessions will focus on Product-Market Fit for IP-rich startups, using Lean Six Sigma and Agile methodologies to de-risk high-tech innovations. My goal is to help student-led ventures—particularly in Med-Tech and Semiconductors—align their technical milestones with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring their growth is both commercially viable and socially responsible.'

How do you plan to engage with the REC community?

'I plan to be an active 'Matchmaker' and Mentor. Having coached over 30+ founders and led cross-functional teams of 150+ members at global leaders like ASML, I bring a large network and a proven mentorship toolkit. I will host 'Impact Clinics' at REC, where I can provide fractional executive coaching to student teams. Furthermore, I want to foster a stronger pipeline between the Eindhoven Brainport ecosystem and the Amsterdam academic hub, bringing industry-grade insights from the High Tech Campus directly to the REC Impact community to accelerate venture readiness.'