Mike Brom is manager of the reporting team. But that’s not all: together with his team, he works on streamlining the data structure using smart software and AI.
Can you explain your role within the team? “I am responsible for and manager of reporting. That means my team and I ensure that our investors can see how their investments are performing. We share updates about the funds and also provide more insight into the companies being acquired. Each quarter, we currently receive around 150 to 200 updates from the funds, which we consolidate into about 25 reports. This number continues to grow as Marktlink Capital opens more funds.
In addition, I handle everything related to data and tech. We haven’t really given it a formal name yet, but the essence is this: within a fast-growing organization with even greater growth ambitions, I make sure everything is scalable from a data and IT perspective. I aim to automate processes as much as possible, and by creating data layers and onboarding new systems, I help the organization work much more from a data-driven perspective and become more scalable.”
Can you tell us something about your motivations and previous experience? “I studied Industrial Engineering & Management in Eindhoven and then completed two master’s degrees: Operations & Logistics and IT Systems. After that, I started at ING in a traineeship, where I worked on various assignments across the organization in the areas of operations, change, and digitalization. I worked as a Black Belt consultant on major efficiency and digitalization projects and eventually became manager of a data analyst team.
When I look at the choices I make in my life and career, it comes down to this: where can I learn a lot, and where do I get the freedom and opportunities to show a bit of entrepreneurship? I enjoy being able to think along, to develop ideas, and to be given the responsibility to bring those ideas to a successful conclusion. I like thinking strategically, leading a team, but also occasionally building and programming myself. That mix is what gives me energy.”
How would you describe the company culture at Marktlink Capital? “Marktlink Capital is a club that wants to stay lean and mean. We want to be able to test, try, and learn quickly. We’re all in it together: there’s a lot possible, and the growth is happening much faster than anyone would have dared to dream. And we’re good at celebrating that together.”
What is your contact like with the investor community? “I’ve attended a few events, and I really enjoy seeing how investors genuinely connect with each other. Entrepreneurs who have been successful naturally and easily connect with others who share that experience.
The events are not only enjoyable, they’re truly unique and offer significant added value for us as a team. When you see and speak to investors several times a year, you understand what they find important and what they want to read in the reports. In reporting, you’re naturally close to the client: we don’t just decide ourselves what investors want to read, we actively reach out to them as well.”
