Klaas Dijkhoff

Klaas Dijkhoff is a former politician, entrepreneur, and author. As former party leader of the VVD, State Secretary for Security & Justice, and Minister of Defence, he has more than earned his stripes in politics. His sharp analyses, humor, and wide-ranging interests make him an inspiring personality who knows how to engage and connect with people. Klaas as a speaker With his experience in politics, entrepreneurship, and media, Klaas offers a unique mix of insight and inspiration. He gladly shares his vision on current themes such as leadership, crisis management, behavioral influence, innovation, and social developments. His open and humorous style makes him an accessible and energetic speaker who always leaves room for dialogue and reflection. Entrepreneurship The world is constantly changing. Every day we are exposed to an increasing number of choices. What should we vote for? Which products should we buy? On what basis do we make our decisions? Are we really as rational as we think? And what about our customers? As entrepreneurs, we must succeed every day in getting our customers to choose us again and again. And all this in an increasingly tough environment with higher demands and more competition. Klaas is the founder and co-owner of SUE & The Alchemist, a company focused on applying behavioral science to understand and influence people’s choices for a product, service, or company. To achieve that, it helps to know a bit more about how our brain works. If price and quality are not always the leading factors in choosing a company, it pays to know what can actually make the difference. Author In addition to his role as a speaker, Klaas has also shared his ideas in writing. Together with Tim Versnel, he wrote the book Alles komt goed (Everything Will Be Fine), in which they discuss current issues in politics and society. The book reflects his ability to convey complex topics clearly and accessibly, as well as his optimistic outlook on the world. Career Klaas began his political career as a city council member and party leader of the VVD in Breda. From 2010, he combined this role with his work in the Dutch House of Representatives, where he quickly stood out with portfolios such as counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Later he held positions as State Secretary for Security & Justice and briefly as Minister of Defence. As party leader of the VVD, he led the largest political faction in the House of Representatives and managed to tackle complex political issues with creativity and decisiveness. After politics, he focused on entrepreneurship and inspiring appearances in the media and on stage. From State Secretary to participating in De Slimste Mens (“The Smartest Person”) in 2017—and walking away with the win. “Forever curious. Often optimistic. Sometimes annoyed. Never reluctant to give an opinion, but always as a snapshot in thinking.”