Why I decided to apply
After studying law, which as it turned out wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, I started looking around for a place where I could develop myself quickly, learn about a lot of industries, but also find out what I really wanted in life. Consulting seemed to fit all these criteria and I just clicked with McKinsey.
Proudest moment
When, during a press conference with financial analysts, the CFO of a client convinced them about an important point he was making based on a simple back-of-the-envelope calculation a teammate and I had done for him during one of our earlier meetings.
Strangest place I ever had breakfast while at McKinsey
On the border of the Indian Ocean, with monkeys hopping around the breakfast tables.
What next?
Who knows? My own company? Probably later on. For now, anything that offers the opportunity to learn and develop myself. And also I want to live abroad again; I love the adventure of being in a different country.
Most important lesson I learned from a client
Tomorrow is another day.
Favorite movie
Gladiator. If I could also choose a series it would be Friends (and The West Wing).
Skill I never thought I’d have
Coaching skills. If you want to help someone, you really need to understand the motives of his/her actions. This is a big part of our work.
My toughest day/moment
Waking up at 4.30 a.m. to catch a plane at 6.00 a.m… and missing it by a couple of minutes.
Outside McKinsey activities
Working on our new house with my wife, reading the newspaper with a cup of coffee in the sun, sailing, cooking for friends at home.
Favorite restaurant/ bar/ club in the Netherlands
My favorite restaurant is De Italiaan in West and favorite bar is Gambrinus in de Pijp.