We meet Jan on the 17th floor of the Schouten Zekerheid tower. It's a shame it's so foggy, because you have a beautiful view of the Rotterdam skyline from here. "I've been working closely with this wonderful company for many years now, and it has been very beneficial for both them and me," he says enthusiastically. To better understand his career, let's first go back in time. Jan started his career in accountancy at Arthur Andersen, but soon realized that it wasn't for him. "That work was so boring. After just one year, I made the switch to insurance." There, he discovered his competitive side. "I saw that other firms were doing better, and that gave me the drive to work hard and build my career even further." His ambition took him to Mees & Zonen, among others, where he was responsible for major clients such as Ahold and LeasePlan. Later, he made the switch to Setswick, an international insurance broker, where he sought new clients worldwide as New Business Manager. "Meetings in London, collaborating with companies all over the world—that gave me so much energy."
The National 1903
In the end, no one was surprised when Jan decided to start his own business in 1994. As an independent entrepreneur, he has been advising companies and organizations for more than thirty years with his company Hoeflaak Beheer, both in the insurance industry and beyond. In 2013, he was asked to support Nationale 1903, a leading collective dedicated to safety, risk management, and professionalization within the timber trade and woodworking industry. He seized this opportunity with both hands, which ultimately led to him taking on a management position. "Wood is a difficult product to insure. The sector faces unique challenges, such as fire hazards and damage to stock. I help many companies affiliated with Nationale 1903 with targeted advice."
"By joining forces, you can truly protect entrepreneurs against unforeseen events."
In addition to his consulting work, Jan spends almost every day working on smart prevention strategies and developing customized insurance policies. By bringing together companies, industry organizations, and insurers, he contributes to a safer and more future-proof
sector. "Cooperation is the key," he says firmly. "If you join forces, you can really protect entrepreneurs against unforeseen events."
His strength lies in his quick and creative approach to unexpected challenges. For example, he was recently approached by a major beer brand with a special request: the beer had to be insured against 'flocking' on its way to America. "And preferably within half a day," he says with a laugh. Despite the complexity and thanks to his inventiveness and network, he managed to do it. This kind of action emphasizes his dedication to customers and the importance of personal contact and trust. "I'm never just focused on 'closing deals,' but above all on helping people and companies smoothly and efficiently and solving problems."
Jan Hoeflaak and Schouten Zekerheid a clear vision: entrepreneurship means looking ahead. Both focus on innovative and tailor-made solutions, so that companies are not only well insured, but also face the future stronger and more secure.
A sustainable future for the wood sector
Back to the timber trade. Jan still sees plenty of opportunities for this sector, especially in the combination of sustainability and technological innovations. He emphasizes that the insurance industry must respond proactively to global trends, such as pressure on deforestation and the emergence of alternative building materials such as plastic and metal. "But wood, with its unique properties and environmentally friendly character, remains an indispensable material," says Jan. "Wood is a product with a future. It is strong, renewable, and fits perfectly into a circular economy."
When we ask him what type of wood he would represent as a person, his answer comes as no surprise: "Oak," he replies without hesitation. "Durable, strong, and hardly wears out."
Are you interested in becoming a member of Nationale 1903, receiving advice from Jan Hoeflaak, or purchasing the wood cover package from Schouten Zekerheid? Feel free to contact us without obligation.
