Matty Bakkeren

An experienced IT technology veteran with a proven track record at Intel Corporation. Is passionate about technology and possesses commercial instincts. Matty has successfully led high-stakes partnership teams across Emea at Intel, with Accenture and Red Hat. He was responsible for the deployment of numerous infrastructure projects with multinational enterprises, across a range of market segments. Matty has the unique ability to translate highly technical concepts into digestible and actionable points of business value. He is very effective at getting things done across cultures and multiple complex organizations – with inquisitiveness and rare creative ideation.

Were you troublesome or sweet as a child?

I think I certainly wasn’t a rebel, but also wasn’t your cliché ‘sweet child’. I was very active, always outside, discovering new things. I always wanted to understand what was happening around me. From a young age, I was interested in technology. I also remember my first encounter with computers: a Philips P2000, at school. The first computer I got my hands on. Unfortunately, we were only allowed to use it for one hour each week, far too little time. But it did generate a spark in me, even though I did not realize it at that time.

What drives you?

I get energized by creating something new in a collaborative setting. It is not title or status that drives me, but rather the pursuit of knowledge and upholding values. I have this continuous cycle: I want to learn something, understand it, apply it, and then improve it. That cycle really excites me. Whether it’s about developing talent, engaging in sales or product discussions, or having technical conversations, these are the things I genuinely enjoy doing.

Is this your ideal profession?

I have designed many elements in my company and entrepreneurial role that I really enjoy. As technology and innovation evolve at such a rapid pace, businesses often struggle to find the best strategies to connect with potential customers. It is important to implement the right solutions and messaging, particularly when dealing with new or emerging technologies. I thrive on pioneering these strategies, shaping compelling stories, and transforming them into actionable plans that inspire others. What excites me most is seeing tangible results such as corporate success and a boost in employee motivation. To achieve these goals, I bring a unique mix of interesting elements, a technology component, a marketing component, a PR component, a sales component, and a whole lot of energy. Making these puzzles energizes me, but I do have one guiding principle for my engagements: I need to get excited or intrigued by the solution for myself first, before I take on the project.

Are you an idealist or a realist?

I’m quite neutral and open-minded, able to see both sides of an issue. I have a vision and pursue it until someone presents a compelling argument that makes me reconsider. I thrive in environments that challenge my thinking and help me see things from a different perspective. This back-and-forth process of refining ideas is essential to me. I appreciate insights from those around me, as I value perspectives and alternatives that help shape a more holistic approach.

What are you most proud of?

Over the years, I have come to the realization that it’s not about the multimillion-dollar business deals I was involved in, but about people. I have a picture in my office of three individuals I helped in their careers, and I know I made a difference for them. These connections still exist today, and that makes me proud. Not because of my input, but because their careers improved, and they enriched my life in return.

In my career I’m operating at that level with Academia, VP’s, CxO’s and meeting with captains of industry. I get to do things I enjoy, I provide for my family and surround myself with great people who make me smarter. In the end, business success is fleeting, but these connections and experiences are what truly matter.

Why are you a Friend of Stark?

I have a long and valuable relationship with some of the people at Stark Narrative, I appreciate what the Stark team represents. Stark Narrative are approachable and pragmatic and conduct work with a high level of quality and professionalism. Also very important: the people at Stark Narrative have a long history and high degree of affinity with technology, which comes with a healthy dose of inquisitiveness. They don’t take things at face value and want to tell real stories, the kind that resonate with people. This is a skill I highly value. The Stark Narrative team does what it does well, with integrity and a smile and that is important to me. It aligns with the type of people and activities I want to engage with. By collaborating, we can bring value to clients to help accelerate growth and success.