Van de Groep & Olsthoorn is proud to welcome Hans Hilbrands and Jakob Jan Verbraak as new consultants to our team. With over 30 years of experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and an extensive network, with a specific focus on the food sector.
With their arrival, we further expand our network and strengthen our position within the (international) food industry.
The food sector is one of the most dynamic industries in the world, characterised by trends such as health, sustainability and technology. At Van de Groep & Olsthoorn, we understand these developments like no other.
Jakob Jan Verbraak and Hans Hilbrands are true experts in the food sector. Both studied Food Technology at Wageningen University, a leading innovation hub for the global food industry. . Their background forms the foundation for their deep sector knowledge and their ability to successfully connect companies with top talent.
The food business touches us all. We eat and drink every day, and the changes in this sector – from sustainability and health to technological innovation – influence our well-being and society as a whole. It’s a dynamic field where company culture, identity and personal values are playing an increasingly important role. This is precisely where Jakob Jan and Hans excel: finding leaders who are not only a strong professional fit, but who also align with the organisation’s culture and ambitions.
With many years of experience, an extensive network and in-depth sector expertise, they guide companies in filling key positions. They know the challenges, the businesses and the people. Reliability, quality and long-term relationships always come first, making them trusted sparring partners for a wide range of food companies – from multinationals and mid-sized firms to SMEs, family businesses, start-ups, scale-ups and private equity portfolio companies.
Hans Hilbrands (1964) brings extensive experience in both the food sector and executive search. With a background in Food Technology from Wageningen University and a broad career with organisations such as FrieslandCampina, HAS Green Academy and DUPP, he knows the food industry inside and out.
His strength lies in understanding the culture and ambitions of a company, paired with a a sharp eye for talent. Hans not only recognises which competencies are needed, but also which individuals truly fit the dynamic of an organisation. Thanks to his deeply rooted network and personal approach, both companies and candidates know how to find him when it comes to key positions.
Hans is focused on building sustainable connections, always with a long-term perspective. His expertise, sector knowledge and personal style make him a trusted and valuable partner for for food industry organisations, as well as a reliable advisor for candidates exploring new opportunities.
For questions or advice, feel free to get in touch.
Jakob Jan Verbraak (1968) combines a broad background in the food industry with many years of experience in executive search. After studying Food Technology at Wageningen University, he worked in quality management and commercial roles within the food sector before fully committing to connecting leadership talent.
What sets Jakob Jan apart is his ability to truly listen to both companies and candidates. He looks beyond job requirements and CVs, always seeking the best possible match in terms of expertise, personality and company culture. With his in-depth sector knowledge and strong network, he is a trusted advisor for many businesses when filling critical roles.
Jakob Jan also places strong emphasis on long-term relationships. Not the quick match, but sustainable collaboration is what he strives for. This makes him a valued sparring partner for food organisations seeking the right leaders for the future – and for candidates aiming to realise their ambitions.
For questions or advice, feel free to get in touch.
Curious about how we can make the right match for organizations? Get in touch with us, we’d be happy to tell you more.
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