Summary
Joachim Van Essen is a seasoned transformation and programme manager with over 25 years in IT management, currently leading infrastructure programs for Smurfit Westrock Global IS from the Netherlands. He specializes in startup and high-change environments—driving cloud migrations, SAP and non‑SAP ERP transformations, M&A and large-scale outsourcing with proven delivery of multimillion-euro business cases. Joachim combines hands-on technical roots in SAP/portal technologies with strong people leadership and commercial acumen, consistently securing C‑level buy-in while building global, cross‑functional teams. As a co-founder of an SAP consultancy, he brings entrepreneurial discipline and a “lead by example” approach to program execution and vendor orchestration. His pragmatic cloud-first mindset has enabled factory-style migrations to Azure and AWS that shift organizations toward as‑a‑service operating models. He also contributes to the community on GitLab, preferring collaboration and reuse over reinventing the wheel.
7 years of coding experience
10 years of employment as a software developer
Bachelor Busines Information, Bachelor Busines Information at De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences
Business Economics, Business Economics at IBO Qualified Business School
Dutch, English