At OpenVisions, I am committed to bringing about meaningful change in society and within organisations. I do this as a researcher and strategic advisor, focusing on the intersection of knowledge, policy, and lived experience. My work mainly addresses complex or sensitive societal and organisational issues related to equality, diversity, inclusion, and healthy organisations. I approach these challenges with a sharp eye, sometimes thinking outside the box, and with a sense of wonder.

In my life and work, I maintain an international focus. I focus on the Netherlands, Europe, and international programmes, and have presented in 17 countries on 4 continents at international academic, policy-focused conferences and expert meetings.

I have 17 years of experience at the intersection of research, strategic advising, and advocacy, with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion (DEI). At present, through my company OpenVisions I offer research and strategic advice. I work both independently and collaboratively in teams, lead projects, and maintain an ‘open relationship’ with a select group of trainers and experts. My clients are typically national and medium-to-large organisations, governments, and international programmes.

Previously, I worked at the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (Sociaal en Cultureel Planbureau), the centre of expertise Rutgers (both nationally and internationally), VU University Amsterdam, Bi+ Nederland, and the municipality of Rotterdam.

Currently, I am the Research Director for Bi+ Equal, a two-year European project funded by the European Commission. I was also the principcal investigator of an international participatory study within a human rights programme spanning 11 African, Asian, and Latin American countries.

In thematic research, I frequently focus on the experiences and positions of underrepresented, marginalised, or invisible groups who face exclusion, unequal opportunities, or stigma. With an anthropological and sociological approach, I am experienced in qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods.

Through OpenVisions, I offer the DEI Scan for organisations focusing on diversity, equality, and inclusion. This scan provides insight into the current situation regarding policies and provisions, attitudes, experiences, and behaviours of employees. It offers a solid foundation for evidence-based policy, strategy, prioritisation, and implementation. The DEI Scan typically includes: a) a staff survey, b) a policy scan, c) a focus group with internal experts and stakeholders. It can be customised and expanded or shortened with qualitative, quantitative, creative, and participatory methods, as well as HR Metrics.

My advisory services focus on DIG strategy, policy development, inclusive processes, research, and language use.

Recently, I have been exploring how perspectives on health, capitalism, and climate intersect with DEI.

On a personal level, I live with my wonderful wife, and my great passions are playing salsa and meeting interesting people.