Forty years in Defence provide plenty of stories. But Hans Damen is particularly interested in what is happening now. What does the war in Ukraine teach us about logistics, innovation and resilience? How do we scale up defence in a society that has been focused on efficiency for decades? How can the military, government and industry work together when speed suddenly becomes critical?
Hans connects current developments with his own experience, from international military cooperation and crisis management to major reorganisations and logistics innovation. Not a view from the sidelines, but sharp observations from a world he knows from the inside. With room for discussion, perspective and humour.
Cooperation
How do you get organisations with different interests and cultures to truly work together? Hans was closely involved in the Land Maintenance Initiative, in which the Royal Netherlands Army and industry developed a new way of working together. What began with five companies grew into a much broader ecosystem.
Leadership
What does leadership require when technology, generations and circumstances change rapidly? And what can we still learn from military thinkers, from classical strategists to, indeed, Mao Zedong?
Crisis Management & Transformation
How do you keep thinking and making decisions when the pressure mounts? And how do you bring people with you when change is painful? Hans led a major reorganisation in which 40% of 3,300 positions disappeared.
Defence, Logistics & Innovation
The war in Ukraine has put logistics, industrial capacity, military mobility and innovation firmly back on the agenda. Hans connects these current challenges with years of experience across Defence, NATO, the EU and industry.
No standard presentation off the shelf. The subject, examples and format are tailored to the audience and current developments.
A good chairperson does more than keep an eye on the clock. Hans helps sharpen the purpose, programme and narrative beforehand. During the event, he connects speakers, audience and subjects, asks the question that has not yet been asked and intervenes when a discussion needs more focus.
His experience with international conferences, military and governmental meetings, and events such as the Nationale Taptoe also means he understands what is required behind the scenes to make a programme work.
Serious when necessary, with humour and perspective whenever possible.
60 years on stage. From an early age, Hans has performed in music, cabaret and theatre. He still draws on that experience every time he steps in front of an audience.
Today, Hans speaks and moderates at national and international events for Defence, government, industry and the international security community. From major security conferences to closed-door meetings, panels and masterclasses.
* (Ook) voorzitter / presentator / moderator
Looking for a keynote speaker, chairperson or moderator who combines substance, current affairs and experience? Get in touch to discuss your audience, programme and objectives.