THERE IS ALWAYS A SOLUTION

WHO ARE YOU, AND WHAT DO YOU DO IN ONE SENTENCE?

I’m Jeannette den Boer, co-founder of Highlights of Holland, a brand-new experience museum opening soon on the Spaarndammerstraat in Amsterdam.

HOW DID YOU START IN THIS INDUSTRY?

I worked for over seven years at RAI Amsterdam and later as a freelance project manager for events. The museum world is new for me, but organising and managing projects is in my DNA.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WEEK LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

Right now, it’s all about renovations and preparations for our opening on December 16th. So a thousand things on the to-do list! I’m sure it will stay just as dynamic afterwards, only with new kinds of challenges :)

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

Keep breathing, don’t stress, take a good night's sleep, there is always a solution.

WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR CAREER?

There are many people I look up to, but especially those who lead with passion. People who run their business not just with their head, but also with their heart. Those who stay true to what feels right.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THE HIGHLIGHT OF HOLLAND MUSEUM?

I used to organise courses for international businesses visiting the Netherlands. I always wanted to show them more of our culture, history, and traditions after a week of training. So, I did a typical fun Dutch activity or visited a highlight. But I only had time for one activity, while the Netherlands has so much more to offer. That’s how the idea for Highlights of Holland was born: all of the Netherlands under one roof.

HOW HAS YOUR PREVIOUS BACKGROUND HELPED YOU MANAGE THIS PROJECT? WHAT NEW HAVE YOU HAD TO LEARN ON THE GO?

Project management! Handling long to-do lists, staying calm, and just getting things done. The renovation side of things was completely new to me, though, especially the budgeting of this! So we had to adjust the budget a few times, but it’s been a great learning experience.

WHO ARE THE PEOPLE IN YOUR TEAM MAKING THIS PROJECT COME TO LIFE?

We’re a team of four founders, Mark, Laura and Stefan. Mark and I will be running the day-to-day operations. When I first had the idea, I immediately thought of calling Laura, and she was instantly enthusiastic. Her partner Mark joined too, and it all came together naturally. We are supported by a fantastic team: our marketer Marc Arnold, cool freelancers, the construction and content teams from Live Legends and Unbranded, our contractor and many talented subcontractors. We couldn’t do this without them.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE EXPERIENCE YOU'RE BUILDING FOR SOMEONE WHO HASN'T HEARD OF IT?

Highlights of Holland is an interactive museum that allows visitors to learn and experience the best of the Netherlands. Visitors take on an inspirational and fun journey through our history, discovering the customs and highlights that make the Netherlands so special. Across several themed rooms, education, experience, and wonder come together. Sail through our water history, ride a bike to bring a room to life, or get lost in a giant tulip field. Discover the highlights of the Netherlands all under one roof...

HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES AND MAINTAIN PERSONAL WELL-BEING?

Finding balance is always a challenge. Luckily, our team is good at supporting that, so we motivate one another to keep exercising, go for a walk, or simply say, “time to go home to the kids, tomorrow’s a new day.” Having a supportive team makes all the difference; you bring out the best in each other and start each day re-energised.

WHAT'S AN UNEXPECTED CHALLENGE YOU HAVE FACED BUILDING THE MUSEUM, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?

Finding the right building. It took almost two years! At one point, we spent nine months negotiating for a property, and it was cancelled. That was tough, but we told ourselves: something better would come, and it did. My biggest lesson: keep believing and trusting. If you really want something and stay determined, it will work out.

IN TERMS OF GROWTH AND STAFF, WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE FOR SOMEONE JOINING THE MUSEUM TEAM?

We have some really great positions available, from location manager to shift leads, hosts, and content marketer. So if you're looking for energetic colleagues and a super fun new workplace, get in touch!

HOW DO YOU WISH VISITORS AND EMPLOYEES TO FEEL AFTER BEING AT THE HIGHLIGHTS OF HOLLAND?

Highlights of Holland is fun, interactive, and something you do together. You learn something new, you’re surprised in every room, and you walk out feeling inspired and super energised!

WHERE DO YOU SEE THE MUSEUM AND YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

Still having a lot of fun! Of course, it’s easier when business is going well, but I believe the two go hand in hand. When you surround yourself with great, talented people and keep the energy positive, success will follow more easily.

If you want to know more about Jeannette, give her a follow on Instagram