About the team
The all-stars behind your favorite trade shows
Lotje
Tail Wagging Specialist
"I'm a hunter by trade – but since that's a seasonal job, I spend my time at the office making sure everyone’s having a good time. When someone’s happy, I dance with them. When they’re sad, I’m great at comforting and listening. I also make sure no one stays inside all day. My superpower? I’m always in a good mood. Oh – and I’m also the one who takes care of all the food leftovers."
FrEJA
Chief Nap Officer
"I’m freaking old – 105 in human years. I’m deaf, my eyesight isn’t great, and I’m also a bit (okay, a lot) senile. But honestly, I think I’m still doing a pretty decent job. I don’t quite remember what that job is, but I often find myself in the kitchen – it’s my favorite place. I’ve been with the company for 15 years, so I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs. One of the best rules I helped set? Everyone who works here has to be nice to us dogs – otherwise, they don’t get the job. Hopefully I’ll stick around a little longer. Carpe diem – that’s my motto."
john Michael swaab
Chief Executive officer
"Twenty-five years ago, I helped start the publishing house Het Portaal — a place meant to connect readers and advertisers. Back then, we were focused solely on a single magazine. Now, 25 years later, we're still the go-between for branded merchandise and promotional marketing, with an expanded focus that now includes workwear. The tools have changed — we’ve gone from print to a whole mix of channels. But to me, as a publisher, how we do it doesn't matter. Whether it's through carrier pigeon, magazines, the internet, or TV — our mission stays the same: to be the connector, with knowledge, an opinion, but above all: helpful and kind"
ferry aaftink
Salesmanager
"Team player who loves achieving big results with a small team. Rolling up our sleeves and going the extra mile together to put a smile on the customer’s face."
katha bütow
Salesmanager
"I'm a ‘fake Dutchie’ with a German heart. I specialize in cross-border collaboration between the Netherlands and Germany. With my extensive and diverse network, I know exactly how to connect people, markets, and opportunities. I see possibilities where others don’t—yet—and I strongly believe in the power of collaboration and partnership. Because together, we go further."
simone keijzers
Salesmanager
"I help businesses grow by connecting them through our succesfull trade shows and targeted media. With over 25 years experience within the promotional market and a driven and spontaneous spirit, I focus on long-term partnerships, always aiming to deliver the best results for my customers."
bettina nettelbeck
Salesmanager
"With 12+ years in the industry, I love bringing people and opportunities together—that’s where the magic happens. I’m all about happy clients, helpful connections, and being a familiar face at every trade show. And when I'm not connecting Europe and BeNeLux, you’ll find me in costume—Halloween is my time to shine!"
peter van gestel
Editor in Chief
"I'm passionate about content on sustainability, creative sales promotions and brand activations, and stylish corporate wear. I also get a kick out of seeing people dance to my funky house tunes. And most importantly, let’s have lots of fun!"
kelly vermeer
Editor / Content specialist
"I’m the one behind the things you see on our socials. Coming up with ideas, writing posts, planning content—that’s me. Usually with an ice tea in hand, sometimes with a deadline chasing me."
monique zijlstra
Eventmanager / Trafficmanager
“A happy team and happy clients matter most to me. I’m a passionate and multidimensional professional dedicated to smooth, successful execution. As event manager, traffic head, and finance officer, I pursue excellence. Being kind, helpful, and responsible, I thrive on making people happy, aiming for success and optimal experiences.”
sander van der veen
Officemanager / Webmaster
"Do you have a problem, a question, or something else? Whether you're a colleague, customer, or trade show visitor, it doesn't matter – I'm here to help! As the all-round jack-of-all-trades at Het Portaal, I (almost) always have a solution."
Julio sanchez
Website support specialist
"Problems with computers, websites, printers — you name it. Hardware and coding are my strong suits. I enjoy diving into complex issues and figuring things out."
suzanne jacobs
Freelance
"Creative, connecting, always on the move, and a true out-of-the-box thinker. I design and manage mailing campaigns, create online content for social media, and proudly dedicate myself to The Next Generation, where I connect young professionals and encourage innovation within our industry."
