I am an internet entrepreneur with a background as an SEO, digital marketer, and web developer. In the early days of my career, I worked in several IT companies, ranging from enterprise hosting to online marketing agencies. This allowed me to work with several large brands around the world.
In 2010 I founded Yoast, which has as its mission to allow as many people as possible to build a findable website. It empowers people through software (most notably its Yoast SEO plugin) and training. Team Yoast currently consists of more than 150 people. Yoast SEO is currently available for four open-source platforms and active on more than 12.5 million websites.
In 2021 we sold Yoast to Newfold Digital and after a short transition period I took a step back, to work as an advisor. In September 2022 I came back as Interim CTO. In december of 2022 I also took on the role of Head of WordPress Strategy at Newfold.
Investor
My wife Marieke and I have invested in several companies. I act as an advisor for some of the companies we have invested in. We like investing in companies that make the world a better place. More about our investments can be found on the website of our investment vehicle Emilia Capital.
Private life
I’m 40 years old and live with my wife Marieke in Wijchen, near Nijmegen, where Yoast also has its main offices. We have four kids: Tycho, Wende, Ravi & Borre, who are between 7 and 16 years old.
Outside of work I enjoy reading, LEGOs and playing board games with my kids.