“Communication is the bridge between IT and people, and I want to strengthen that bridge.”

In Spot On, we're pleased to introduce you to our colleagues. This time, in the spotlight: Nathalie van Berkom, Communications & Events Advisor at the Dutch Banking Association (NVB).

I love doing new things. The variety, the freedom to choose, and the constant learning—that's what suits me.

She knew from an early age that she wanted to work with people. "At the same time, I grew up in the digital age, so technology was always close at hand," Nathalie says. This led her to pursue a career where those two worlds converge. This interest led her to the Communication and Multimedia Design program. After a first job as a UX designer, she discovered her true passion during a technical migration project. "I was Communications Stream Lead there and saw how often communication between IT and stakeholders goes awry." Now, Nathalie knows better than anyone how important it is to build bridges between worlds that don't always connect naturally.

Communication with impact

She also does this in her current role as Communications & Events Advisor at the Dutch Banking Association, where she is working on the organization of a large-scale banking conference. "We bring together the financial sector, the business community, and politicians to discuss the Netherlands' role within Europe." Nathalie is, as she puts it, a "jack of all trades." She is responsible for both communications and event management: from developing communication campaigns to promotion, visualization, and coordination of suppliers and venues. Everything to ensure the best possible output. It is precisely this combination of strategy and execution that appeals to her greatly. "The target group of bankers, executives, and politicians is complex, and you really have to connect with these busy professionals. The communication has to be strong, convincing, and flawless."

The project is also a first for the NVB. It's the first time this conference has been organized. For months, Nathalie and her colleagues have been working on individual components, and now they're taking shape. "I get a lot of energy from seeing everything come together. The event has yet to take place, but I'm proud of the process leading up to it." She hopes that with the project team, she will lay a solid foundation for an annual or biennial event. "That makes the work extra challenging and special."

The match with Babbage

A simple Google search led Nathalie to Babbage. "What immediately appealed to me was that Babbage connects professionals with complex organizations, where communication can truly make the difference." Nathalie's strength lies in the combination of strategic and people-focused communication. Through Babbage, she can now apply this at the NVB (Dutch Association of Banks and Associations). Babbage also helps her fully focus on her work. "The processes run smoothly, the contact is personal, and the administration is perfectly organized. That's a huge relief for a freelancer."

Stay curious

The golden tip for other communications professionals? “Stay curious and keep learning. Technological developments are moving fast, and this impacts people and how they behave. It's good to keep this in mind if you're considering entering the communications field. Attend lectures, read books, take workshops, and brainstorm with others. This not only helps you professionally but also keeps the work fun and inspiring.”

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