Koen has been with our Amsterdam office since the beginning of his career following university and has now achieved the role of Counsel in our Disputes team.

During his studies, Koen worked at multiple local firms as part of his internships. He was keen to progress his career in an international firm due to its cross-border identity, whilst also wanting to work in a somewhat smaller team.

Thrown into the deep end – given challenging work, yet supported by the Partners and colleagues

Koen felt mentored and guided through the early stages of his career, making sure he was well adapted to working in such a dynamic and corporate environment.

He recognized the importance of listening and learning, gaining an all-rounded perspective and getting involved in varied work during the start of his career. In that way, you will find an area you enjoy. Once you have found this, our office will encourage and facilitate your growth in that area where possible.

During the first three years as a Junior Associate, you will complete both the Beroepsopleiding as well as the Law Firm School (LFS). It is important to take the knowledge you obtain during these studies back into the work field.

NRF facilitates study leave during which you are able to fully focus on this

Koen believes that being a good lawyer is inherent to being a trusted advisor and the ‘go-to’ person for clients. At all times, it is important to prioritise while maintaining the relationships with all of our clients.

Looking back, Koen would give the following advice to his graduate self:

Listen, learn, and grow – no rush, before you can run you must walk