“Justice does not thrive in noise,” believes Gert Jan Verhoog. This sentiment encapsulates both the individual and his advisory approach. Serving as the national dean of The Netherlands Bar, I have collaborated with him since 2008, a period marked by tumult within the organization. Gert Jan is an expert, prudent, and authoritative advisor in the realms of communication and strategy. He adeptly maintains a calm and deliberate course.

Willem Bekkers, General Dean, The Netherlands Bar

Gert Jan is a skilled communicator with a keen understanding of governance and politics. This combination is indispensable in The Hague, where numerous parties seek such expertise. In essence, it is a blend that seamlessly integrates with The Hague’s dynamics and will continue to do so.

Annet Bertram, Municipal Secretary of The Hague

Gert Jan served as spokesperson and communication advisor for the independent commission investigating the Non-Lethal Assistance (NLA) program involving the Netherlands in Syria. He swiftly grasped the complexities of the NLA program, offering invaluable guidance, particularly during the final stages of the report’s preparation, on articulating internal (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and parliament) and external messaging to the public. Gert Jan excels in listening, discretion, possesses excellent strategic insight, and exhibits exceptional political and diplomatic acumen. His demeanor is highly pleasant, and the commission greatly appreciated his contributions to the report.

Patrick Cammaert, Major General (Retired), Chairman of the Commission of Inquiry on the Non-Lethal Assistance (NLA) Program in Syria

Shortly after my tenure began in The Hague, we enlisted Gert Jan Verhoog as Director of Information & External Relations for the College of Mayor and Aldermen. Amidst frequent predecessors in this position – a widely acknowledged challenge in The Hague’s communications landscape – he adeptly restored trust in his organization both internally and externally. Gert Jan ensured effective communication management, fostering a constructive relationship with the media. He surrounded himself with top-notch individuals and spearheaded initiatives such as The Hague Hospitality Centre, aligning with the city’s international profile. Equally important, he discreetly advised us on numerous sensitive issues, consistently demonstrating sharp insight and operational pragmatism. His practical understanding of operational dynamics is exceptional.

Wim Deetman, Mayor of The Hague

I approached Gert Jan Verhoog in late 2016 on behalf of the Association of Classicists for advice. From our initial conversation, it was evident that Verhoog is an analytical and supportive conversationalist. Throughout our three-year collaboration, he consistently displayed attentive listening and understanding. Verhoog crafted a robust strategy for the association and proactively contributed to its implementation, initiating projects that elevated the VCN to its desired position. His ability to empathize with stakeholders, coupled with a calm yet determined demeanor, repeatedly fostered win-win outcomes. Despite the VCN’s limited budget, he displayed remarkable commitment, underscoring his societal engagement and empathy. Moreover, his team, which supported us, exhibited professionalism and amiability consistently.

Jet (H.) van Gelder, President, Association of Classicists Netherlands

I became acquainted with Gert Jan Verhoog during a period when TAQA unexpectedly garnered attention for its proposal to establish Europe’s largest gas storage facility between Bergen and Alkmaar. We were akin to a rabbit caught in the headlights as impending challenges loomed. I deeply admire how Gert Jan swiftly instilled calm and facilitated my return to a rational stance. He assembled an excellent team and, drawing upon astute analysis and extensive political and municipal governance experience, devised a comprehensive plan rooted in good neighborliness to engage with all stakeholders. Rather than intricate communication plans or media campaigns, he advocated for dialogue based on a sound and consistent narrative. Gert Jan relegates the advisor role to its rightful place: a trusted confidant with insight and empathy, quietly influential yet profoundly impactful.

Jan Willem van Hoogstraten, Managing Director, TAQA Netherlands

Gert Jan Verhoog significantly contributed to my tenure as Alderman for City Marketing and International Affairs of The Hague over the past two years. He played a pivotal role in shaping The Hague’s profile as an international city of peace and justice and in advancing the city’s overall marketing efforts. His engagement extended beyond municipal boundaries, involving entities such as the International Press Center Nieuwspoort, the Foreign Press Association, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The benefits of his work persist daily, and I wish him success as an entrepreneur, confident that his expertise will prove invaluable beyond the confines of the Municipality of The Hague.

Frits Huffnagel, Alderman for City Marketing, International Affairs, ICT, and Organization of The Hague

Media advisors and strategists abound, each offering diverse counsel. What truly matters is an advisor who comprehends your problem and distills it to its essence. Understanding the culture and traditions within the organization or enterprise is crucial. This fosters trust, particularly in crises demanding both internal and external action. Gert Jan Verhoog, an experienced media advisor, provided expert and prompt assistance amidst a sensitive issue concerning a journalist whose sources were unverifiable. He navigated both internal and external communication adeptly, tailoring strategies to align with the organization’s ethos. Gert Jan’s counsel is marked by sharpness, creativity, tranquility, and affability – a beacon of calm amid today’s media frenzy.

Cees van der Laan, Editor-in-Chief, Trouw

Gert Jan listens attentively and poses the right, incisive questions. His broad background and interests offer a sturdy sounding board, facilitating swift focus on core issues and priority setting. He gradually enhances your understanding through discussions, guiding deliberations on personal matters or strategic choices in a natural, congenial manner.

Jurjen van de Pol, NN Investment Partners

Gert Jan Verhoog excels as a strategist and communication expert. With extensive journalistic experience and managerial prowess, he adeptly navigates the complexities of government affairs. As Director of Information & External Relations for the Municipality of The Hague, he spearheaded initiatives to enhance the city’s international profile, showcasing his creativity, reliability, and meticulousness.

Willem Post, Head of The Hague Hospitality Centre, Municipality of The Hague, and American Affairs Expert

From December 2016 to May 2018, Gert Jan Verhoog propelled the communication efforts of the Dutch Gambling Authority forward significantly. His involvement in weekly board meetings yielded exceptional results, culminating in a comprehensive positioning and profiling strategy for the authority. He introduced new communication channels, such as appointing an editor to curate newsletters. Gert Jan’s meticulousness ensured a seamless transition, leaving behind not only a revitalized communication department but also a capable successor who embodies the authority’s values. He is a consummate professional, astute in political matters, possessing insight, empathy, humor, and a pleasant demeanor.

Jan Suyver, Chairman, Board of Directors, Dutch Gambling Authority

Gert Jan Verhoog elevated communication within the Dutch Bar Association, laying out a strategic vision and executing it with remarkable enthusiasm. He swiftly formulates plans, winning the trust of stakeholders through his analytical, proficient, sensitive, warm, prompt, and hands-on approach. His extensive network ensures the feasibility of his proposals.

Hermine Voûte, Acting General Dean, Portfolio Holder for Communication, General Council (Executive Board), The Netherlands Bar