Ineke Kooistra

About Me

Hi, I’m Ineke Kooistra. With over 30 years of experience in management and boardroom roles, I’ve built my career on transforming businesses and empowering people. From startups to billion-euro companies, I’ve led organisations through growth, innovation, and cultural evolution—always with a focus on creating environments where people and businesses can thrive. 

For more than a decade, I had the privilege of leading YoungCapital, guiding it from a bold startup to a European market leader in youth employment. Oversaw turnover growth from €60 million to €603 million (2013–2023), driven by strategic innovation, automation, and scaling.

Expanded the internal team to 1,300 employees, supported by a flexible workforce of over 25,000 professionals. Championed digital transformation, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling rapid scaling while maintaining service excellence.
Led multiple organizational redesigns to support rapid growth and evolving market needs.

With headquarters in Hoofddorp, The Works operates across 50 locations in the Netherlands, as well as in Germany and the UK, while maintaining an online presence in 12 European countries.

This incredible journey was fueled by amazing people (both internally and externally), a growth mindset, a strong company culture, and a commitment to delivering value to our clients and stakeholders.

In recent years, I took on the challenge of scaling Circle8Group—an organisation of over €1,3  billion—building strong leadership teams and driving innovation in tech-enabled staffing. I’ve also served as a Commissioner with AFAS Software.

Now, I’ve launched my own company to share the expertise I’ve gained over decades. I bring hands-on experience in interim management and (co)CEO-roles, strategic advisory, and cultural transformation. Whether it’s accelerating growth, tackling complex challenges, or building a high-performing team, I’m here to make it happen.

Beyond my CEO & Consultancy activities  I started also an executive search firm "EliN Partners" -  I’m a expert blogger for MT Sprout & BusinessWise and speaker where I share insights on leadership, culture, and innovation, and  the future of work.

Above all, I’m driven by a passion for helping businesses and individuals unlock their full potential. If you’re looking for a partner to tackle strategic challenges, shape a winning culture, or find leaders who make a difference, let’s connect.