Ilona van Ginkel ─ Motivated marketing leader translating strategic business goals into solid marketing plans…
June 15, 2022 • 3 Minute Read
Ilona van Ginkel
Head of Marketing Netherlands
Trend Micro
Are you looking for a motivated marketing leader with talent for translating strategic business goals into a solid marketing plan? We know the person – Ilona van Ginkel!
Ilona van Ginkel is the Head of Marketing at Trend Micro Netherlands. She is responsible for demand generation, brand awareness, and supporting channel and sales with their account plans. She sees herself as a results-driven professional with a clear understanding of how to translate strategic business goals into a solid marketing plan. With over 13 years of experience, Ilona is passionate about marketing and IT, and thrives in a high-paced, constantly changing work environment. In her spare time, you can find her out for a run, drinking good wine, or spending time with family and friends.
Please meet this IT Wondrous Woman™, Ilona van Ginkel!
Our 10 Questions for this IT Wondrous Woman.
Fun Facts
1. What’s the one thing about you that your business colleagues don’t know about you?
In my student days, I used to work the weekends for a company which promoted liquor brands in bars and clubs. I’d put on a branded outfit (e.g. a ‘cat suit’) and made sure everyone in the club drank that particular brand that night.
2. Before the pandemic, how many air miles/KMs did you flying annually?
I don’t know, but it was approximately once every 2 months.
3. What is the most adventurous food you have eaten and what city/location did you eat it?
I remember eating fried bugs at a tradeshow in the Netherlands, think it was a cricket. Tasted like potato chips.
Your Career
4. What are the top two experiences, achievements or failures that shaped your journey as a successful leader?
- When I finished school, I went to Stockholm for 6 months to work as an au pair. Had nothing to do with my education (MScBA) but I needed a break between school and work. One of the best decisions I ever made and what I can recommend to everyone.
- Over the last 13 years in IT and marketing, I had many experiences, and all have shaped my journey to where I’m at today. Being results-oriented and not afraid to be critical have been two important distinguishing factors.
5. Did you have a mentor in the early part of your career and, if so, what is the biggest lesson you learned from your mentor or influencer?
I didn’t have a mentor, but I had different managers over the last years. Two things stuck with me, which I now still use as a mantra when helpful:
- Perception is truth
- You catch more flies with honey
Walking In Your Shoes
6. What is one piece of business or career advice you would give to your younger self?
Be yourself. There are so many great people out there, who are smarter, more creative, eloquent, etc. Stop comparing yourself to them. Instead, learn from them, use what you need to develop yourself, but always be you.
7. As a leader, how do you remain a resource for people early in their careers?
Always be willing to help, be available for support or advice when needed.
Today’s Business Environment
8. What is the most interesting project you have worked on in the last few years?
To be honest, I find that hard to say. I think the most interesting part of my job is that it is so diverse. Running events (physical or virtual), campaigns, driving demand generation, sales enablement, PR & Brand Awareness, working with channel & alliance partners, and different agencies. That’s what I find most interesting and energizing.
9. What skills are you currently developing or refining (in yourself) that will make you a more successful leader in the digital economy?
That is ranging from people management skills (as my team is growing) to Digital Marketing skills.
10. What is your greatest business challenge today?
Time management and the corresponding work-life balance.
