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What we stand for
At dgl, it’s about more than just technology; it’s about people. A little effort won’t cut it, which is why we expect full commitment from all stakeholders. If we don’t sense urgency, we must decline the assignment. We strive for the highest quality and support our people to reach this level. This means we not only invest in expertise but actively share it with our clients.
With years of expertise and scientific knowledge, we have developed a Data Governance Framework (DGF) that leads directly to pragmatic steps for our clients. We then created innovative software to support this framework and, in the future, using Supply Chain techniques, significantly reduce data usage. We are passionate about developing future-proof software that makes a meaningful contribution to reducing the IT footprint. Our aim is not only to demonstrate leadership and entrepreneurship but also to set an example in sustainable data management. Together, we are building a data-driven future where innovation and responsibility go hand in hand.
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Mission
At dgl, we are determined to transform the future of data governance. We ensure that data governance can be carried out by everyone, not just IT or technical teams. In short, not technology-pushed, but embraced by people as one culture. In the coming two years, we will implement our DGF and software in three industries.
Future-proof: by applying supply chain theories, our software will be expanded to deliver a significant improvement to the IT footprint of every organization. Soon, we will make it possible for users to choose which data is needed for a decision, and we will process only that data. This innovative approach will be available within three to five years and will help companies operate more efficiently while increasing our presence across multiple industries.
With a vision for global expansion, we aim to become a leading name in the largest industries worldwide within seven to ten years. dgl is here to set the standard in data governance and to help businesses reach their full potential. 🚀
Together, we are building a future where data governance is not just a necessity but a strategic advantage. Join dgl and experience the power of: Data Governance. A people thing. 🌍📊
Data Governance Team
Jordi Verhulp
Principle Data Governance Expert & Founder
Over 15 years of experience in data analytics, big data, and data governance. Graduated in Business Administration at Nyenrode Business University (MSc and MBA). Built expertise across various industries and organizations, including Eneco, UWV, Council of State, Rabobank, and Kawasaki.
Throughout his career, he has developed a vision to promote sustainable data management through Data Governance. It is his personal mission to make a significant contribution to reducing the IT footprint by implementing sustainable data management from this perspective.
Joost Bruins
Head of Data Governance Ops & Co-Founder
Over 17 years of experience in software development, IT, data solutions, and business services. Graduated in Business Administration at Nyenrode Business University (MSc and MBA). Expertise in industries such as Arval, KPN, RDC, and Telio Group.
He believes that when customers, employees, and solutions come together in the right way, the result is added value and growth. That’s why every day he builds an organization from the customer’s perspective, where employees, customers, and solutions are at the center.
Marlike Ridderbos
Data Governance Expert
Over 8 years of experience as a data researcher, analyst, and product developer. Graduated in Biomedical Technology at TU Delft (Biomedical Engineer). Expertise in industries such as RWG, AkzoNobel, and DJI.
She designs practical solutions based on scientific knowledge that enable organizations to operate more efficiently. Her goal is to develop user-friendly products with the conviction that software is not the end goal, but a means to take work off organizations’ hands.
Dirk Akkermans
Data Governance Analyst
Over 8 years of experience as Business and Data Analyst. Graduated cum laude in Supply Chain & Marketing Management at Tilburg University (MSc) and DAMA-DMBOK certified. Expertise in industries such as AkzoNobel and MediaMarkt Benelux.
He has learned that processes and solutions only work when there is support and they contribute sustainably to the business strategy. Every day, he enjoys organizing business challenges in a pragmatic and thoughtful way.
Nicolaas Commandeur
Data Governance Analyst
Over 7 years of experience in business analysis, data processes, and data quality. Graduated in Financial Management (MSc) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Expertise at organizations such as Ministry of Defence, Rabobank, and ABN AMRO.
He translates complex issues around data and processes into practical solutions that help organizations make better decisions. His goal is to make data structured, reliable, and accessible, with the understanding that technology is not an end in itself, but a means to strengthen people and processes.
Smartshore/Ability Techteam
Jelke Schippers
CTO
Over 20 years of experience in international software development, product design, and digital innovation. Founder and CEO of Smartshore and CTO as part of the dedicated DGL Tech Team.
He builds high-performance development teams for organizations that want to accelerate. He has worked on diverse projects both domestically and internationally, combining technical depth with strategic insight. His expertise lies in outsourcing, open source, engineering, and branding.
Jan Kooistra
Design Lead
Over 20 years of experience in digital strategy, product development, and building digital platforms. Managing partner at Ability and Design Lead as part of the dedicated DGL Tech Team.
For a wide range of clients such as ABN AMRO, the Ministry of the Interior, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, and the City of Amsterdam, he has helped realize digital products and platforms. His strength lies in connecting strategy, design, and execution, always with a focus on the end user.
Arjan Lieverse
Scrum Master
Over 20 years of experience in IT, digital innovation, and connecting technology with business. Operations Manager at Smartshore and Scrum Master as part of the dedicated DGL Tech Team.
He leads international teams and complex software projects and has extensive experience in e-commerce, logistics, and finance. He has delivered projects for companies including Blokker, ING, and V&D. His strength lies in agile leadership, service management, and guiding digital transformation.
Advisory Board
Karen van der Zanden
Karen brings a wealth of managerial experience and strategic leadership to DGL’s Advisory Board. She held key positions at leading organizations such as Air France-KLM, Oad, and Stromma Netherlands. At Oad and Stromma, she led general management, while at Air France-KLM she was internationally responsible for global alliances and strategic partnerships.
She consistently delivered impact in the areas of strategy, innovation, and commercial growth.
As an entrepreneur, Karen is (co-)owner of several companies, including House of ESG, GoCible, and IT Circle Netherlands. Ten years ago, she consciously made the transition to technology, innovation, and ICT, with a strong focus on the sustainability of digital infrastructures, data governance, and the responsible use of technology. She collaborates with organizations such as TNO and Conclusion on programs related to sustainable IT, circular digitalization, and data-driven innovation.
Karen served as chair of the National Coalition for Sustainable Digitalization (Dutch: Nationale Coalitie Duurzame Digitalisering) and is currently chapter lead of SustainableIT Benelux. In addition, she heads the Expert Group on Sustainable Digitalization at industry association BTG and is a board member of Stichting iPoort, where she contributes to the dialogue on technology, society, and politics. In her work, she emphasizes the strategic importance of data governance as the foundation for reliable, transparent, and sustainable digital transitions.
With her unique combination of corporate experience, entrepreneurship, and commitment to sustainability, Karen makes a valuable contribution to dgl’s mission. Her personal mission: to use technology for sustainable solutions while working toward more sustainable and responsible technology.
Robert T. Smits
Robert is an experienced executive and international strategist with an impressive track record in the high-tech and consumer electronics industry. He held top positions at Philips for over three decades, including CEO of the Business Groups Television, Personal Care, and Domestic Appliances, and Executive Vice President of Philips Consumer Electronics.
After his career at Philips, he held various supervisory and advisory roles, including as Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Kawasaki Motors Europe and as a board member at TPV Technology and Trymax Semiconductor. Since 2012, through his own consultancy, he has supported international companies with strategic and operational challenges.
With his in-depth knowledge of global markets, governance, and technological innovation, Robert makes a valuable contribution to dgl’s strategic direction.
National Coalition for Sustainable Digitalization (Dutch: Nationale Coalitie Duurzame Digitalisering)
At dgl, we are proud to be a frontrunner within the national coalition and the driving force behind sustainable data governance for the Netherlands. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability enables us to help companies manage their data responsibly and efficiently. Together, we are building a future where data governance is not just a necessity but a strategic advantage for every organization.
