How my journey began
Several years ago, I reached a pivotal moment in my career. Like many leaders, I had reached a crossroads—my ambitions were pulling me in new directions, but I also felt a deep need to reflect and reconnect with my true purpose. This was the turning point when I started my executive coaching practice: a space where I could guide other leaders navigate their own crossroads and find clarity in their leadership journey.
Navigating Leadership Crossroads
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside inspiring leaders who’ve faced similar turning points. Those moments when uncertainty looms, but you also know it’s time for change. It’s during these reflective moments that I’ve made bold decisions, often with the support of a trusted word or conversation. Each time, I’ve landed in a place of deeper purpose and direction.
Now, I guide other leaders through this same process, working with them (re)discover their clarity and intuition. Today I work with leaders through each crossroads, offering the space and support needed to listen to their inner voice and trust their gut feeling. In those challenging times when doubt clouds your path, I provide the safety and clarity needed to ensure you lead with courage and purpose.
Your presence has more impact than your presentations.
THE Foundation for GroundING Leadership
I hold a Master’s degree in Economics from Erasmus University Rotterdam and a postgraduate qualification in Accountancy from the Catholic University Brabant. My passion for leadership led me to earn a Master’s Degree in Executive Coaching from Ashridge Business School in London, where I became a certified coach, adhering to the Ashridge Code of Conduct. I also completed a course in Boardroom Dynamics at the Tavistock Institute in London, further deepening my understanding of high-level leadership dynamics.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of serving in various executive roles. I’ve been the vice-chairman of the Board of Directors at the Academic Medical Center, CFO of PWC Netherlands and Het Financieele Dagblad, and Director of General Affairs at Buma Stemra. I’ve also built and led a family office for a prominent enterprise family in the Netherlands, and held board positions with organizations like GGNet, Ambulance Amsterdam, Buma Stemra, Centraal Orgaan Asielzoekers, and PharmAccess International.
Recently, I’ve shifted my focus to guiding executives of (family) businesses and entrepreneurs. Through this individual guidance, I work with leaders to find the clarity, courage, and purpose needed to excel in their leadership roles and make meaningful contributions.
The Power of Reflection
Beyond my professional life, I’m a proud father of two adult children and split my time between Berlin and Utrecht. Over the years, I’ve pushed my physical and mental boundaries. From running marathons around the world and swimming from Asia to Europe, to walking with the Maasai in Kenya and Tanzania, swimming with dolphins in Hawaii, and hiking solo in the wilderness of Colorado and Baja California, I’ve sought experiences that challenge and expand my understanding of the world.
Having faced a life threatening situation and encountered life’s fragility, I’ve gained profound insights that I bring to my work. This personal journey of discovery has enabled me to guide others with empathy and clarity, helping them embrace their own leadership path with confidence.
Grounding Leadership for Authentic Impact
With Ruud Hopstaken - Grounding Leadership, I offer leaders the opportunity to reflect, and (re)connect with their true purpose. Whether you are at a crossroads or simply looking for a clearer path forward, I provide the support, clarity, and guidance needed to lead authentically and confidently. Let’s work together to navigate you your leadership journey and make the impact you were born to create.
What others say about Ruud
