As of August 2026, Wilco Jongenelis has joined the global ERA Group network as a partner. His profile provides a brief overview of his background before joining ERA and the expertise he brings with him. To help everyone get to know our new people a little better, we ask each new partner six questions. Read Wilco’s candid responses below.
1. Why this new step in your career?
My personal motto is “wanting to make a difference”, both in my professional and private life. That is why I want to create tangible and sustainable value for organisations. Joining ERA Group gives me the opportunity to do that in a new way.
By combining my own knowledge and experience with the specialist expertise of more than 1,000 professionals within the group, I can think more broadly and provide more comprehensive advice.
What particularly appeals to me is ERA’s strong culture of collaboration. For me, the picture is now complete: entrepreneurship, team spirit, and above all, delivering real results for our clients.
2. Is this also what you wanted to be when you were a child?
No. Like many children, I wanted to become a professional football player or a veterinarian. At the same time, I was very curious and always wanted to learn more about everything.
In the end, my affinity for technology determined my path, and I found my way into telecommunications and electronics. That broad curiosity, however, led me to work in many different sectors throughout my career, and I have enjoyed every one of them.
3. Every career has its highs and lows. What are you proud of, and what would you like to do again?
I have experienced many successes and cherish those memories. But perhaps I am even more proud of the moments when I overcame setbacks, using creative and sometimes unconventional solutions. Most importantly, by refusing to give up. I learned a tremendous amount from those situations.
One unique professional experience I would happily relive was the atmosphere at Orange Netherlands. Engineers from all over the world were brought together to build a nationwide network within just two years. That passion and the collaboration with colleagues from around the globe will always stay with me.
4. What kind of work challenge would make you jump out of bed?
Any challenge where the solution is not immediately obvious.
It is precisely when things become complicated, when setbacks occur, or when others think something is impossible that I become even more motivated. As a pioneer, I enjoy immersing myself in those situations, exploring different perspectives, and developing creative solutions.
The bigger the challenge, the more energy it gives me to ultimately make a difference.
5. Who is your greatest role model?
I do not have one single role model. However, I admire people who have a clear vision, are results-driven, and genuinely want to make a difference. I have been fortunate enough to work closely with people like that.
If I had to name a few examples, they would be:
- Johan Cruyff, for his strong vision and the courage to follow his own attacking philosophy.
- Michael van Praag, for his leadership and his ability to bring people together.
- Louis van Gaal, for his clear vision and his talent for building strong teams.
6. What is your ERA dream?
I am not a big dreamer, but someone who likes to look ahead while keeping both feet firmly on the ground.
In the coming period, I want to work together with clients, stakeholders, and my ERA colleagues as one team, making a difference and achieving lasting results.
ERA Group is delighted that Wilco Jongenelis is joining the network and wishes him every success in the future.
