I was born in Holland where I obtained a master's degree in Financial Business Economics and a post-graduate master in Financial Analysis. I'm a certified EFFAS Financial Analyst and after completing my studies, I worked as an Equity Analyst with Robeco (part of the Rabo Bank Group), covering the retail, leisure and transport sectors. I was also responsible for setting up the Social Responsible Investment methodology within the Rabo Bank Group.

I've been a Non-Executive Director and informal investor since 2000, and have invested in a wide range of businesses, for example: gift ware shops, guest houses, school book distributors and a thermoforming company.