Recommended expert
Stephen Parkins
Co-founder & GTM Lead
Experience
Jan 2025 - Present
1 year 2 monthsNetherlands
Co-founder & GTM Lead
Strategy Quest
- Developed AI-powered simulation platform for corporate strategy, innovation, and investment governance
- Co-created a next-generation simulation platform used by corporate leaders to practise high-stakes strategic decisions under uncertainty
- Designed multi-round simulations integrating concepts such as innovation portfolio management, long-term investment mandates, strategic agility
- Built and orchestrated systems using AI tools including Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, n8n, Eleven Labs, Heygen, Midjourney
- Delivered simulations to executive audiences in corporates and consulting firms across Europe, the US and the Middle East
Jan 2023 - Dec 2025
3 yearsNetherlands
CEO Benelux & Country Manager
Enerfip
- Led expansion into the Benelux market; set up new legal entity
- Built multilingual investor relations team; introduced OKRs and RevOps
- Supported M&A strategy and introduced systems adopted by wider group
- Emphasised sustainable finance, digital transparency, and cross-border coordination
Jan 2021 - Dec 2023
3 yearsGlobal Head of Innovation
SGS
- Designed global innovation governance model and stage-gate funding for 40+ ventures
- Created an Innovation Thesis per BU aligned with strategic and ESG goals
- Embedded agile innovation KPIs and coached BU teams across 50 countries
- Chaired global innovation leads forum and established learning systems
- Led ecosystem engagement including public-sector initiatives, accelerators, academia
- Acted as institutional ambassador at public events and in thought leadership
Jan 2018 - Dec 2021
4 yearsNetherlands
Modular Banking Program Lead & Senior Innovation Manager
ABN AMRO Bank
- Led bank-wide modular innovation programme across 4 BUs
- Launched & scaled new platforms including Tikkie monetisation and Payday (B2C)
- Delivered digital ventures with strong regulatory and market fit
- Oversaw validation, stakeholder engagement, go-to-market and OKRs
- Advised board on venture funding decisions and portfolio balance
- Trained 100+ staff on design thinking, lean startup, and innovation strategy
Summary
Strategic innovation leader with 15+ years experience in the financial sector, including 10+ years in innovation and digital leadership. Former Global Head of Innovation at a €7bn multinational. Led governance, capability-building and funding for 50+ projects globally.
Strong track record in both regulated institutions and venture & startup environments. Fluent in design thinking, lean startup, open innovation, Agile, Scrum, OKRs. Experienced with fintech ecosystems (tokenisation, modular architecture, platform models) and digital delivery at scale. Adept at aligning stakeholders, from C-level executives to regulators, to drive innovation with real-world impact.
Skills
- Strategic Innovation & Digitalisation
- Ecosystem & Open Innovation Strategy
- Innovation Governance & Kpi Systems
- Public Speaking & Stakeholder Management
- Leadership Of Cross-functional Teams
- Trend Analysis & Technology Scouting
- Fintech & Digital Finance (Tokenization, Platforms, Modular Banking)
- Agile Methods: Okrs, Scrum, Design Thinking
- Institutional Strategy & Transformation
Languages
English
NativeFrench
NativeGerman
AdvancedSpanish
AdvancedDutch
AdvancedEducation
Oct 2001 - Jun 2004
University of Warwick
BSc Hons · Economics, Politics & International Studies · Warwick, United Kingdom · 1st class
Oct 1997 - Jun 2000
Lycée Galilée
Baccalauréat in Economics and Social Sciences · Economics and Social Sciences · France
Profile
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Frequently asked questions
Do you have questions? Here you can find further information.
Where is Stephen based?
Stephen is based in Haarlem, Netherlands.
What languages does Stephen speak?
Stephen speaks the following languages: English (Native), French (Native), German (Advanced), Spanish (Advanced), Dutch (Advanced).
How many years of experience does Stephen have?
Stephen has at least 8 years of experience. During this time, Stephen has worked in at least 4 different roles and for 4 different companies. The average length of individual experience is 2 years. Note that Stephen may not have shared all experience and actually has more experience.
What roles would Stephen be best suited for?
Based on recent experience, Stephen would be well-suited for roles such as: Co-founder & GTM Lead, CEO Benelux & Country Manager, Global Head of Innovation.
What is Stephen's latest experience?
Stephen's most recent position is Co-founder & GTM Lead at Strategy Quest.
What companies has Stephen worked for in recent years?
In recent years, Stephen has worked for Strategy Quest, Enerfip, SGS, and ABN AMRO Bank.
Which industries is Stephen most experienced in?
Stephen is most experienced in industries like Banking and Finance, Professional Services, and Energy.
Which business areas is Stephen most experienced in?
Stephen is most experienced in business areas like Strategy and Planning, Product Development, and Project Management. Stephen also has some experience in Finance, Investments and M&A & Venture Capital.
Which industries has Stephen worked in recently?
Stephen has recently worked in industries like Banking and Finance, Professional Services, and Energy.
Which business areas has Stephen worked in recently?
Stephen has recently worked in business areas like Strategy and Planning, Product Development, and Project Management.
What is Stephen's education?
Stephen holds a Bachelor in Economics, Politics & International Studies from University of Warwick.
What is the availability of Stephen?
Stephen is immediately available for suitable projects.
What is the rate of Stephen?
Stephen's rate depends on the specific project requirements. Please use the Meet button on the profile to schedule a meeting and discuss the details.
How to hire Stephen?
To hire Stephen, click the Meet button on the profile to request a meeting and discuss your project needs.
Average rates for similar positions
Rates are based on recent contracts and do not include FRATCH margin.
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Market avg: 970-1130 €
Market avg: 970-1130 €
The rates shown represent the typical market range for freelancers in this position based on recent contracts on our platform.
Actual rates may vary depending on seniority level, experience, skill specialization, project complexity, and engagement length.
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