With a strong background in management consulting and eight years of experience at PwC, Marten joined the ConQuaestor team in December. In his role as senior manager, he focuses on further developing the Data, AI and Technology practice and building a team that helps companies maximize the power of data. We are happy to introduce Marten to you.
Marten (34) lives with his girlfriend and their two children in Maarssen. He is an energetic and athletic person who loves to be outside, no matter the season. Whether it's a game of soccer, tennis or a workout at the gym-movement and challenge keep him on his toes. He also enjoys the outdoors, such as taking a walk on the beach to get a breath of fresh air. Besides sports, he has a keen interest in watches. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and combining relaxation with his passions.
What was the start of your career like?
"After getting my bachelor's degree in Technical Business Administration in Groningen, I wanted to combine my analytical skills with a strong commercial streak. Therefore, I chose a master's degree in Marketing Intelligence, in which I researched both strategic and quantitative aspects of companies. To this day, I have always reflected this in my work as a management consultant.
Towards the end of my studies I did a summer internship at PwC, where I gained my first practical experience within the world of data and consultancy. I liked that experience so much that after graduation I was immediately able to start working as a consultant in the Data Analytics team in Amsterdam. This meant a move from Groningen to the Randstad, where I focused entirely on data-driven issues within large companies. My work consisted of developing and implementing data analytics projects for banks, insurers and pension funds, among others. In this role, I helped organizations turn complex data sets into clear insights that contributed to strategic decision-making and operational optimization."
After eight years you are making the move to ConQuaestor, why?
"After eight years, I noticed that I needed a different work environment. PwC is a big firm with a lot of structure and fixed frameworks, but I missed the entrepreneurship and freedom to build something from the ground up. At ConQuaestor I get the chance to use my knowledge and experience to set up a Data, AI and Technology practice, and that in a company that is developing rapidly. I find that exciting and challenging.
In addition, what appealed to me was the culture at ConQuaestor. It is a company that offers a lot of room to contribute ideas and make an impact. The team is pragmatic, works from concrete successes and then builds on them. That is very different from a large company, where the lines are often already established. Moreover, during the discussions with Mariska and Sjors I immediately had a good click. We were immediately on the same page in terms of vision and ideas."
What will your duties as a senior manager look like?
"In my role as Senior Manager, I am responsible for both client projects and further building ConQuaestor's Data, AI and Technology practice. I work with associates and senior associates to develop propositions towards the market. Think about topics such as AI, data analytics, data governance and data management. This is not just about advice, but also about realizing concrete improvements at clients.
A great example is the development of an AI Readiness Scan. With this scan, we help companies determine how ready they are to successfully implement AI. It is an accessible way to gain insight into their current situation and make targeted improvements. Developing tools like this is not only challenging, but also a lot of fun."
Do you have a goal in mind within ConQuaestor?
"My goal is to expand the Data, AI and Technology team. I want to contribute to ConQuaestor's success by not only coming up with data solutions, but also putting them into practice with clients. I think it would be great if, within a few years, we are known as the team that helps companies use data and technology strategically."
What would you say to consultants considering ConQuaestor?
"Stop by for a cup of coffee! We have ambitious growth plans, so we could really use your expertise.
If you're looking for a place where you can really make an impact, ConQuaestor is the right choice. The team consists of smart doers who not only think about plans, but execute them together with the client. We start small and build big, rather than the other way around. There is an entrepreneurial and friendly atmosphere where everyone gets the best out of themselves and the team. It is a different dynamic than in a large consulting firm, and that makes it unique. Would you like to be part of that? Feel free to get in touch."
Making an impact as a consultant at ConQuaestor? Contact Marten at marten.vanderzee@conquaestor.nl or Mariska Seijsener at mariska.seijsener@conquaestor.nl.