Willem (Frederik walter) Knaap
Partner
Experience
Apr 2023 - Sep 2024
1 year 6 months Netherlands
Partner
Startupbootcamp & Innoleaps
- Led the development and implementation of the MINT SaaS testing tool, reducing error rates by 30% and cutting development costs by 4%
- Directed a six-member cross-functional team to deliver scalable IT solutions within strict timelines
- Engaged with IT and business stakeholders to align solutions with operational and compliance requirements
- Drive solution design and validation efforts for optimal functionality and value within set timelines and governance structure
Jun 2022 - Dec 2022
7 months Netherlands
Contractor cum Venture Builder
ING Bank N.V.
Oct 2020 - Dec 2021
1 year 3 months Muiden, Netherlands
Contractor cum Director Corporate Venturing
Unknown Group B.V.
- Increased project revenue by >15% through IT-enabled innovation strategies for multinational clients, including Unilever and Mondelez
- Managed IT innovation initiatives, ensuring alignment with governance standards and business objectives
- Lead (& acquired) projects with industry leaders (eg. EIT Food, Mondelez, Unilever, ENI, Shell)
- Build & led cross functional teams incl. Corporate Venturing team, utilizing project management and consultative selling
- Established Food & Agri team, driving thought leadership and business development
- Contributed >EUR 1,5mio to group sales initiatives
- Drive corporate innovation initiatives and foster startup-corporate collaborations
- Develop and maintain relationships with investors, ensuring effective investor relations
- Identify and pursue new business development opportunities to drive growth
- Lead the development of programs to support startups and facilitate their growth
- Manage and oversee program activities, ensuring successful execution and desired outcomes
Sep 2020 - Present
4 years 9 months Netherlands
Owner
Venture Planner B.V.
- Delivered IT and data-driven solutions to improve operational efficiency for fintech and sustainability ventures
- Lead transformation programs, integrating governance and compliance requirements into solutions
- Fostered partnerships to scale IT-driven initiatives in highly regulated environments
- Drive commercial, innovation, and business development initiatives to propel organizational growth
- Utilize dealmaking skills to negotiate and secure advantageous partnerships and agreements
- Lead multiple corporate innovation projects to foster a culture of innovation within the organization
- Successfully manage high-paced projects, ensuring efficient execution in dynamic environments
- Demonstrate effective management skills in leading teams and overseeing day-to-day operations
- Translated strategic objectives into actionable plans and executed them with precision
May 2015 - Aug 2020
5 years 4 months Netherlands
Venture Builder & Senior Innovation Manager
Rabobank
- Delivered multiple Proofs of Concept for IT-enabled Food & Agri data innovations
- Implemented & developed Rabobank's first IT portfolio management framework, streamlining startup evaluations and governance processes
- Co-founded and scaled Peaks.com to €7M Series A funding, leading a 30-member team
- Team lead of newly build (open innovation) team (7fte)
- Delivered 50+ scouting and analysis assignments (e.g. Food, Agri, Energy)
- Startup Mentor / coach in multiple ecosystems (e.g. ACE, StartUp Bootcamp)
- Presentations and public speaking including internal innovation sessions, presentations to country & corporate delegations, panels
Sep 2011 - Apr 2015
3 years 8 months Amsterdam, Netherlands
Private Wealth Manager
Rabobank
- Acquisition specialist responsible for own client portfolio. Part of the Rabo Schretlen Wealth management team in Amsterdam/Noord-Holland (12 branches)
- Coached and supported Schretlen & Local Branches Rabobank in transition to RSVM concept
- Commercial supercharger with out-of-the-box actions
- Coaching in acquisition of private bankers working at multiple Rabobank branches
- Serving UNHWI/HNWI clients working in a specialist team
- Role: Acquirer and relationship manager. Portfolio of HNWI & entrepreneurs
- Acquisition & account management: portfolio of 150+ customers
- Financial planning & Advice: investments, mortgages, loans, pensions, insurances
Oct 2010 - Aug 2011
11 months Netherlands
Financial Planner
Van Lanschot Chabot
- Establish Intermediary Desk for mortgages, taking charge of financial planning services
- Provide expert advice on mortgages, pension, investments, and income to a clientele consisting mainly of entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals (HNWI)
- Proactively acquire new clients to expand the customer base
Sep 2010 - Aug 2013
3 years Amsterdam, Netherlands
Part-time Teacher
Hogeschool van Amsterdam
- Part-time instructor for 3rd and 4th-grade BBA students specializing in Financial Services Management
- Provide guidance and supervision for student theses, ensuring quality and adherence to academic standards
Jan 2007 - Sep 2010
3 years 9 months Netherlands
Financial Coach
De Hypotheker
- Provide coaching and guidance to mortgage advisors, focusing on income advice to drive increased cross-selling opportunities
- Offer expert advice on mortgages, pensions, investments, and income to a client base primarily composed of entrepreneurs and business professionals
- Serve clients across multiple branches, ensuring consistent and high-quality advisory services
Jan 2005 - Dec 2006
1 year Netherlands
Financial Advisor
Aegon Nederland
- Worked as a Financial Advisor at Aegon Nederland, specializing in cold acquisition, selling, and providing financial advice
- Developed expertise in acquiring new clients through proactive outreach and sales techniques
- Delivered comprehensive financial advice to clients, offering guidance on various financial products and services
Jan 1998 - Dec 2005
7 years Netherlands
Part-time Credit Advisor
DSB Bank
Summary
Dynamic business leader with over 15 years of experience in (IT & tech) project management, business architecture, and digital transformation within financial institutions. Proven expertise in implementing regulatory-compliant IT & tech solutions and optimizing end-to-end processes from front to back office. Skilled in Agile & Scrum methodologies to drive efficiency and deliver value-driven outcomes. Recognized for implementing innovative solutions in dynamic, complex environments and achieving impactful, sustainable results.
Languages
Dutch
Native
English
Advanced
German
Elementary
Education
Oct 2009 - Jun 2012
University of Amsterdam
Master of Science · Insurance Studies · Amsterdam, Netherlands
Oct 2007 - Jun 2009
Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
BBA · Financial Services Management · Amsterdam, Netherlands
Oct 2002 - Jun 2005
University of Groningen
Propedeuse · Law · Groningen, Netherlands
Certifications & licenses
CSRD / ESG Consultant Program
Alex van Groningen
Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)
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