After more than twenty years at the helm of IMAGEM, founder Wouter Brokx is handing over day-to-day management to Eric-Jan van Alten. Wouter will remain actively involved and will focus entirely on innovation, strategy, and product development. This transition aligns with the phase the company is currently in: mature, growing, and full of ambition to tackle societal challenges with in-depth domain expertise, powerful technology, and a proven approach.
Why take this step, and why now?
Society is changing rapidly. Municipalities, water authorities, and government agencies are under pressure due to challenges related to quality of life, climate, housing, and safety. At the same time, there is a growing need for knowledge partners who not only contribute ideas but also take concrete action. At IMAGEM , we IMAGEM this reflected in the demand for innovation, scalable solutions, and support in navigating an increasingly complex environment.
To effectively address these challenges on a structural level, we are strengthening our organization. By delegating day-to-day management, Wouter will have the freedom to focus entirely on setting the strategic direction and further developing technological innovations, such as our new offering centered on policy-aware digital twins.
Founder Wouter Brokx: the creative force behind innovation
Wouter has been the face of IMAGEM from day one. As a founder and content-driven innovator, he has built the company based on a clear vision: using technology to make the world a better place to live. Not a publicly traded tech giant chasing quarterly results, but a Dutch family business driven by a commitment to social responsibility and a long-term vision.
“In this phase of growth, I find it difficult to balance large-scale innovation with day-to-day operations,” says Wouter. “Both deserve my full attention. By handing over day-to-day management, I’ll have the space to focus entirely on innovation and offerings like Planspace. That’s where the extra focus will now lie, and where IMAGEM can IMAGEM make a difference.”
~ Wouter Brokx, IMAGEM
What does this mean in practice?
Above all, this step represents continuity, deeper engagement, and accelerated progress. We will continue to develop solutions that are not only technologically robust but also truly address today’s challenges—such as balancing housing development with quality of life. Dealing with the consequences of climate change: heat stress, flooding, and the need for greening. But also consider the preservation of knowledge and continuity as experienced government employees leave due to an aging workforce. Or ensuring safety in a world that is becoming increasingly unpredictable.
It is precisely because of this complexity that it is important to make clear choices. IMAGEM to strengthen our day-to-day operations and accelerate innovation. In this way, we create the space to continue innovating together with our partners and clients.
Meet Eric-Jan van Alten
The day-to-day management of IMAGEM led by Eric-Jan van Alten. An experienced CEO with a background in project management, support, sales, and marketing, among other areas, he has held several similar positions both nationally and internationally and understands better than anyone how to scale an organization without losing sight of the human element.
With over twenty years of experience as an entrepreneur, he knows what it means to roll up his sleeves. Eric-Jan is a hands-on foreman through and through: someone who contributes ideas, pitches in, and draws energy from meetings, conversations, and working together to develop concrete solutions.
“I believe in structure and discipline that develop into a solid routine,” says Eric-Jan. “And in the power of listening: truly understanding what matters to the customer and responding to it immediately.”
~ Eric-Jan van Alten, IMAGEM
Outside of work, Eric-Jan is a true bon vivant. He loves spending his free time with the people he cherishes most: his four daughters. They can often be found together on a sunny terrace, in a cozy theater, or at a concert. A new chapter in his life is about to begin, as he is about to become a grandfather for the first time—a prospect he is eagerly looking forward to.
Eric-Jan is also an avid athlete. Whether it’s a brisk morning run or an intense workout at the gym before dawn, he seizes every opportunity to stay active. For him, exercise isn’t just a way to stay fit, but also a moment of peace and reflection.
His curiosity and thirst for knowledge are insatiable. He loves to draw inspiration from compelling historical novels, thought-provoking podcasts, documentaries, and in-depth conversations with friends and colleagues.
Moving forward together
With this step, we are moving into the next phase. IMAGEM what it has always been: a committed, independent Dutch knowledge-based company. But now it has a stronger foundation for further growth, innovation, and social relevance.
We believe this change will help us operate in a more forward-looking and effective manner. We look forward to meeting you, getting to know you, continuing to work together, and discovering new opportunities together.
Planspace a policy-driven digital twin
A policy-aware digital twin a digital model that not only maps the physical environment but also incorporates current policy objectives and regulations. This integration creates a powerful method and set of tools that enable organizations to become more adaptive and make better-informed decisions in a rapidly changing world. Consider evaluating spatial interventions, planning measures, or testing scenarios—all in alignment with current policy. The result: a more transparent, faster, and more flexible way of working for governments and partners.
