Up close and personal with Martijn de Koning: DPDK’s Head of Business
Shortly after celebrating his first DPDK anniversary as Business Director at the beginning of the year, Martijn de Koning got promoted to Head of Business. To celebrate the occasion, I thought it would be fun to get to know him better, talk about his new role, and learn what it takes to build successful relationships with clients.
Let’s start with a quick introduction. Martijn is a client services expert with more than 25 years of digital experience at various agencies and companies under his belt. Essent, Mirabeau, Cognizant, and Valtech are some of the organizations he has worked at, just to name a few. Read on to learn why he joined DPDK, what his new role entails, and how he makes our clients happy.
You’ve been at DPDK for over a year. I’m curious, what led you here?
After working at some bigger agencies for a number of years, I wanted to apply my knowledge and expertise in a boutique agency where I could fully focus on helping clients with their digital challenges. My path crossed with DPDK’s and it worked out perfectly. It’s great to be part of an international and diverse team of talented and enthusiastic people. After more than a year at DPDK, I still feel that it’s the right fit.
I heard that you’ve been promoted to Head of Business, congrats! What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Thank you! I’m excited to tackle a broader variety of tasks and responsibilities. And of course, I’m looking forward to making an even bigger impact on DPDK and our clients.
Can you tell me a bit more about your new role?
In my new role, I will be focusing on building sustainable partnerships and collaborations with our clients. I will also work on solidifying our processes and making sure our clients are happy and satisfied. At the end of the day, this allows us to establish successful partnerships and grow our business.
What part of your job do you like the most?
The first thing that pops up in my mind is acquiring and delivering great projects together with the whole team. It’s hard to beat that. But I also really enjoy making service and process improvements. Basically, anything that impresses our clients and makes them happy.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
I think dividing my attention between various clients, tasks, and responsibilities is not always easy. You need to give clients, projects, and teams the attention they deserve. All of these can sometimes make it challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
How do you manage to stay on top of all your responsibilities?
I set clear priorities for my key tasks and responsibilities. Whether it’s business development, serving clients, or driving teams in the right direction. This also helps with setting up a good structure, building a great atmosphere, and empowering teams. I don’t mind working hard and leading by example as long as I can relax from time to time :)
As Head of Business, and previously as Business Director, you’re in contact with lots of clients. In your opinion, what’s the key to building successful client relationships?
It’s all about being a trusted advisor. Clients rely on me and our teams to find solutions that answer their wants and needs. Putting their interests first and being empathic is very important. You also always need to make sure you deliver what was promised. You’ve got to practice what you preach.
Can you tell me about a project you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of?
I have been involved in many digital projects that were at the forefront of digital technology, and overall great and fun experiences. For example, back in the late nineties, I took part in organizing one of the first online surgery broadcasts. At DPDK, I love the rebranding we did for Rosco Vision and how we helped them move forward into the digital era.
If you had to define your job in one word, what would it be?
“Matchmaker” or “connector” are the first words that come to mind: matching clients’ needs with the best digital solutions, and connecting clients with our teams and operations.
What’s exciting you about the digital industry right now?
The digital industry has been exciting since its beginnings in the late nineties. I was lucky to have been part of that from the start. It’s magical to be at the intersection of human-centered design, customer experience, technology, and business applications. Working in the digital industry means that you’re at the forefront of the newest innovations that have the potential to transform businesses and society. It’s creative, it constantly evolves and never gets dull. I love it.
Last but not least, what do you enjoy most when you’re not working?
I enjoy exploring the world around me on my road bike. It also helps me stay fit :) Besides that, I love hiking with my partner, being immersed in music at festivals, traveling and learning about different cultures, and spending time with my friends and family.
