ARTHUR DE BOK

Dear Colleagues,

On Monday the first of May, I started at De Boelelaan as your new CEO. In the preceding weeks I had visited the headquarters several times where I spoke with approximately fifty Stage colleagues and gained a number of first impressions. The conversations were sometimes short, sometimes long, but no matter what the subject was, every person I spoke with gave the impression of being determined and inspired. I saw motivated employees who really stood for something, who believed in what they were doing. These people want to achieve something, and they know they have the ability to make it possible. As your new CEO, it’s great to discover so much positive energy in this fantastic theatre company. In the coming weeks I’ll visit all our Stage countries and I look forward to meeting you.

But first, for those who don’t know me, a little about my background: I’m Dutch, and together with my wife and our three sons I have lived in numerous European cities. We now live in Amsterdam. I’m a good example of how someone with a law degree can end up with a career full of surprises. I worked at Procter & Gamble for twelve enjoyable years, starting out as a brand and sales manager before moving up in the organisation. I then went to Goodyear, the international tire manufacturer, where I also served for twelve years. Stage Entertainment’s headquarters on De Boelelaan was originally built for competitor Michelin Benelux; the tires were stacked to the top of the extra high ceilings in what is now Studio 1. Prior to my arrival at Stage Entertainment, I worked for three years as the CEO of Mediq B.V., a worldwide supplier of medical devices and care solutions.

It’s not too difficult to be impressed by Stage Entertainment. The company’s musical productions and theatres are world class; we excel in quality, professionalism and experience. My goal is to continue with the course set out for the company by Just Spee and the board of directors and to further build on the unique foundation established by Joop van den Ende. The focus remains on operational excellence and controlled growth. Our first task is to continue to ensure that our visitors and partners find value in what we offer without losing sight of the need for us to also reward ourselves as well. Because only then can we create the ideal circumstances for further growth.

I am pleased that Just Spee, as a member of the supervisory board, will remain involved with the strategic developments that he has inspired and guided. Back in my university days I took part in large international sailing races and I know how to maintain a steady course when winds are changing. Stage Entertainment is well on course, and together with the board of directors, the management teams and colleagues, I want to take us to the lead position.

@ Arthur de Bok

Arthur de Bok, CEO