About Gert-Jan

My name is Gert-Jan and the owner of HELDER. (Dutch for transparant and clear). After having held various senior management positions in different industries; international services, retail business, software development and banking (JPMorgan) for many years I decided to become an independent advisor over 15 years ago.

The reason for starting my own company was due to the fact that I have always loved the inventiveness, drive and obstinacy of entrepreneurs and game-changing businesses. As I am a firm believer of diversity, leveraging the different strengths that people bring, I saw an opportunity to help entrepreneurs thrive whilst growing their business.

The main focus of entrepreneurs and business owners should be spending time on what they are good at: being entrepreneurs! All other critical, but time- and focus consuming work should be done by the best experts, cost effective, transparent/objective and all in the interest of the business and its owner(s). 

Contributing to growth and or change, locally and internationally, is a challenge and an opportunity. My talent is that I understand entrepreneurs, their business – and their strengths and weaknesses - and can contribute to that ‘understanding’ time and time again with compassion, knowledge, a strong network and a relentless drive to create impact.

From my objective and independent role as a trusted advisor for business owners, I have been able to achieve distinguishing results. This shared goal and achieving it, is what motivates and inspires me. Having travelled to over 112 countries, being a vocal social media ‘player’ and ambitious leader I stand by the rule that; “Culture eats Strategy for Breakfast”. Make sure you have the best people, the best culture and the rest will follow.

Let’s connect and explore how we can create 1+1=>3!