Ruurd Baane
Founder | Partner
I am the son of both a businessman and a minister. That says something about my roots. I was raised to approach the world with an open mind and few prejudices. I like to explore challenges with that same openness and curiosity. Above all, I want to make the world a little better by helping organisations become more people-centred.
Professionally, I am an organisational consultant. Before co-founding Bright & Company, I worked at KPMG Management Consulting and studied business administration and political science. I like to think of myself as an HRchitect. Throughout my career, I have often been involved in designing working environments, developing HR policies, shaping and structuring HR functions, defining visions and strategic directions for human capital, HR and organisational development, and developing the (HR) professionals who play a key role in these areas.
I take a conceptual approach to challenges. I challenge assumptions, slow things down, unravel complexities, design, dismantle and start again, and find the right words to bring clarity and meaning. Sometimes, I create chaos where there is order. I enjoy reading, but I enjoy writing books and articles even more. I also regularly take the stage to share my perspectives on emerging developments.
I am the father of two children. In my spare time, I love getting outdoors. I also enjoy sports, reading and good food.
"You can’t buy people’s dedication, commitment and passion – you have to earn them."
Tell us more about your specialisation.
I specialise in translating organisational strategy into a people strategy that demonstrably adds value, inspiring others with human capital trends, advising on HR optimisation, and supporting (HR) professionals in their professional and personal development. I am also developing my expertise in guiding management teams, often focusing on people, organisational and development challenges.
In which specific sectors do you work?
My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds. From small to large organisations, and from highly specialised knowledge-intensive organisations to hands-on service providers and operational organisations. Across both the public and private sectors. I also teach strategic human resource management at Utrecht University and the Workplace Academy, among others.
What is your vision for your work?
What I love about my work is that it is closely aligned with my passion. I am fascinated by the subjects I work on and have strong views on them. I genuinely enjoy supporting and inspiring others in these areas, even if only for a limited period. I build on what is already there and, wherever possible, help people see things from a new perspective. I help people take the next step when they face complex challenges they cannot quite resolve on their own. I like to work from the principle of ‘from, for and by’ the people themselves.
What is your dream for the future?
I would love to make a film about the subject that fascinates me most: people-centred organisations.
