Annemiek Bleumink

Since 2015, I have been managing director at Paul de Ruiter Architects. I graduated from TU Delft in Architecture and Building Technology, and subsequently worked at firms including Altoon and Porter Architects and Kraaijvanger Architects, where I became an (associate) partner in 2011. In 2012, I was named one of Europe’s leading emerging architects by Europe 40 under 40. Still, I made the switch to office management. At Kraaijvanger, I discovered that this suited me well. I’m analytical and solution-oriented. That’s not only important in design, but also in everything that comes with it. As managing director, I’m responsible for the firm’s management, acquisition, and vision. I also maintain client relationships and ensure that projects run smoothly in terms of legal, financial, and procedural aspects. I want the designers to be able to focus and the teams to function well. I design very little myself these days. You really need a clear head for that — and there’s usually plenty to take care of here.