That eating together connects, we were able to experience that again last Monday evening during the 3e This year's Free Minds Dinner with our Leadership Circle. Our special guest was none other than Johan van der Zanden, director of marketing & communications at Albert Heijn and "CMO of the Year 2023.
Together with CEOs and leaders from a variety of organizations, including Royal Military Police, Unilever, Guylian, Coca-Cola, Terwille Verslavingszorg, Rabobank, Gipmans and Foodhub, we joined the conversation with this "curious" marketer. Johan emphasized the importance of curiosity for every marketer. Curiosity about people, about connection, about opportunities and about the highest achievable.
With his infectious passion and enthusiasm, Johan took us through the daily challenges he and his team face as market leaders. How purpose and performance go well together. He stressed the importance of staying sharp on every detail of their mission: 'Every word in our mission counts.' And the importance of every leader's connecting role. A great example of his passion and engagement? For the Christmas edition of Allerhande, he himself makes the dish on the front page before the magazine goes to press, in line with Albert Heijn's mission: 'Together, making better food accessible to everyone'.
It was an evening full of valuable insights and lively conversations. With inspiring lessons for everyone at the table. Next time, would you also like to participate in the Free Minds Dinner And be inspired by like-minded leaders? Join us and be stimulated by fresh ideas and new perspectives!
Hilversum, Oct. 3, 2024
