Seeing man set foot on the moon 'live' on tv at the age of 6 and attending a lecture on 'deterrence' by Henry Kissinger at the age of 14 nailed my interest in nuclear weapons, in anything flying, in defence and in international relations. Being Dutch, ie from a very small (= power light) country, and not having the most diplomatic character I pursued a predictable corporate career. Later joining the founders of TomTom - the gps and mapping company - to help grow that business exponentially I launched my tech and investing career.

One of the founders of Keen Venture Partners now raising Europe's first dedicated dual use defence and security venture capital fund following two earlier funds (AUM 270m Euros), I am a 'passionate (over-used word)' European, and Atlanticist who believes in action, deeds and commitment. Europe needs to stand taller, stronger and carry a bigger stick. In defence. For a safer and stronger Europe, European entrepreneurs, technology and private capital need to be added to the defence ecosystem. For my sins I initiated and paid for a public awareness advertising campaign - well before Russia's invasion of Ukraine ! - to make Dutch voters aware of the massive underspent on defence and the sorry state of our armed forces. Also serving on the Dutch Advisory Council on International Affairs, on the modestly named 'Peace and Security Committee'.