1) What has been your greatest achievement, in a professional and personal capacity?

Settling as well as winning some major IP litigations, together with the team is key to great achievements. High quality services can be delivered to our clients with our strong team of talented international lawyers. This allows us to tackle most complex intellectual property issues within tight timeframes and enjoying it as well. Next to an exciting law practice, my activities as an artist are also beautiful challenges. Like for instance a monumental sculpture created for public space in a nationwide well-known show, as well as art shows worldwide in galleries in Shanghai, Istanbul, Venice, Düsseldorf and Singapore.

2) What do you do differently from our peers in the industry?

We listen, create and connect. We are business partners to our clients. We are trusted partners in a long-term relationship with clients. We work in the language of the client. This can be Dutch for a client from the Netherlands, but also French for French clients, as well as German or English for clients from jurisdictions practicing these languages. We also bear in mind the culture, the business goals of the client looking at a broader perspective.

3) What advice would you give your younger self?

Observe, orient, decide and act. Do not stay too long in observation mode. Be strong, creative and confident, do it, experience it and enjoy the ride!

4) Can you give me a practical example of how you helped a client add value to the business?

There are many examples to give, an important one is to look together with the client to the IP portfolio and to determine together the strategy to develop, to protect and to enforce the IP rights and act against infringements. Clients appreciate a lot when they can have a clear strategy and everything is well streamlined. Money is saved and value is created. We also assist our clients when they have international matters to connect them to excellent lawyers in each jurisdiction needed.

5) Within your sector, what do you think will be the biggest challenge for clients over the next 12 months?

Complying with the rules on corporate sustainability due diligence will be a challenge for clients. We are glad to help our clients with these challenges.