Interview with Frank Spikker, CEO of ISOPARTNER
As you are quite new in the company, can you tell us a bit more about yourself in a few sentences?
I’m 56, Dutch, and have a wonderful partner, Angie, along with two great kids—Oscar (16) and Leni (13). I’m passionate about sailing, golf, and outdoor adventures—basically, if it involves wind, water, or a golf ball, count me in! Most of my career was with Philips, where I held various roles in marketing, sales, and general management across Europe and Asia, eventually leading me to the role of CEO for the professional lighting business in Asia-Pacific, based out of Shanghai. After that, I moved to Halo Creative & Design in Hong Kong, a very entrepreneurial and creative company that designs and sells beautiful furniture and interiors globally—think brands like Timothy Oulton. After nearly seven years of loving that role (and almost 17 years in Asia), I felt it was time to head back to Europe. I spent the next five years at Royal Mosa in Maastricht, where we produced and sold ceramic tiles for stunning architectural projects worldwide. And now, I’m thrilled to be part of the IPCOM and ISOPARTNER family! Over the years, I’ve lived in places like Hamburg, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, spending about 20 years abroad. Working in different cultures has been a huge part of my journey, and I’ve loved every minute of exploring new perspectives and ways of thinking.
Having visited the different ISOPARTNER companies, we are curious to hear about your insights. Can you summarize how you would describe your first taste of the ISOPARTNER BU after your first six months as CEO?
I’ve visited almost all countries and most of the branches, and I have to say, the experience has been incredible. It’s clear that I’ve joined a group of passionate people who take immense pride in their work, their teams, their customers, and their successes. Every organization has its own entrepreneurial spirit and has done tremendously well on its own. However, there are differences across the group, and sometimes teams aren't fully aware of the exciting developments happening with their counterparts. Everyone is enthusiastic about the fast-paced growth within the group, but I see huge opportunities for us to work more closely as a European team – sharing ideas, learning from each other, and developing where it makes sense. My aim is to help make that happen.
What do you expect the biggest challenge is going to be for business unit ISOPARTNER?
We are continuously expanding and are a group of unique and strong companies who would like to work together to create a strong European and harmonious business. I think that a big challenge will be to make sure that we grow at the right pace across the group, bridging between various teams and stages of development, to align cultures and to make all of the European businesses grow stronger together.
What experience from your past career is sure to come in handy in your current role as CEO of ISOPARTNER?
I have been fortunate enough to work in very different settings, at different locations, with different cultures in small and large companies and it helped me to develop a broad set of skills but more relevant, it taught me that business is all about people. If we have a clear goal, and we’re all working towards it together, with mutual respect, we’ll achieve great things. The ability to bring people together from different backgrounds and experiences is probably the most valuable lesson I’ll bring to ISOPARTNER.
It’s always exciting to start a new job at a new company. Why did you choose IPCOM?
I felt that the growth story and associated challenges were inspiring and after I spoke with some of the team members “it felt good”.
What do you like most about your job?
What I’ve enjoyed most so far is the passion and openness of the people. Everyone I’ve met has been willing to share, keen to achieve, and not afraid to tell it like it is – which I love! Plus, the chance to meet and work with people from different locations and cultures has made every day interesting.
Which sustainability initiatives should we absolutely take to meet current and future demands from our customers?
It’s a bit early for me to dive into specifics, but from what I’ve seen in other industries and from European legislation, the need for sustainability initiatives is clear. The drive for a better world is gaining momentum, and even the most sceptical among us will have to embrace this change. I think the IPCOM-Ecovadis initiative shows we’re on the right track, taking responsibility and making moves that will future-proof our business.
How important do you find diversity at work? What can our companies do to promote this?
Diversity enriches both society and companies – it broadens our horizons, encourages tolerance, and helps foster new perspectives. I believe that diversity helps build open and innovative teams. To promote this, we need to give equal opportunities to all, encourage dialogue, and make sure no one is left behind. It’s not just about ticking boxes but about creating an environment where diversity thrives naturally.
What two words would your best friend use to describe you?
Loyal and driven.
What is your favourite quote?
I don’t have one particular favourite, but I do like Einstein’s: "Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." I do appreciate logic, but let’s be honest – imagination eats logic for breakfast!
If you could switch lives and jobs with someone for a month, who would it be?
Definitely an astronaut on the International Space Station! Imagine observing Earth from a distance, trying to comprehend the cosmos, and feeling so small yet connected to everything. And let’s not forget the added bonus of feeling lighter – something I haven’t quite mastered on Earth yet! 😉
