Maaike Dekkers, CEO of Vooruit

In secondary school, Maaike Dekkers had just one dream: to become an entrepreneur. With her IT buy & build strategy, in partnership with MG Partners, and the launch of Vooruit – IT in Motion – that dream has become a reality. Maaike: ‘Vooruit aims to connect people, help customers move forward, and make IT as simple as possible.’

Maaike’s father ran a construction company, and as a young girl, she would serve coffee to his clients. One day, he took her to Luxembourg to invest his savings. ‘That trip was magical, and from that moment, I knew for sure—I was going to be an entrepreneur.’

Working hard and learning fast

Maaike: ‘After studying Economics, I joined McKinsey & Company. That’s where I really learned what hard work means. The pace was intense, but it taught me how to analyse businesses at lightning speed.’

‘After this experience, I co-founded SilverFit with a partner—an IT company specialising in interactive and digital exercise systems for elderly and disabled care. From functional training to virtual cycling, strength training, and even swallowing and breathing exercises. I loved it and worked hard there for twelve years, but I wanted more. Then, in 2020, I met René Manchester and Sjoerd van der Grift—at exactly the right time. Together, we created a plan to take on the IT market.’

A blueprint for success

‘At that time, MG Partners had already launched two successful funds and saw potential in the IT sector. With a wave of consolidation sweeping through the industry, we recognised a huge opportunity.’

‘Together, and with the support of MG’s industry experts, we developed a well-thought-out strategy to build the IT company of the future—a blueprint for success. MG Partners became the lead investor, but I and several colleagues also invested significantly.’

‘We leveraged our networks to find the right companies and worked hard on scenario planning, financial models, calculations, due diligence, and more. And we made it happen,’ says Maaike.

Building an ambitious company

‘Vooruit was formed from a group of well-established IT firms that had already proven themselves over the past 25 years. In just two years, we completed five acquisitions—D-two, Tech Bakery, Four IT, Scala Solutions, and MCC Automatisering—all now part of our Group.’

‘In 2024, we officially became Vooruit, with over €50 million in revenue and a team of 130 employees. Our ambition is clear—we want to become a top 5 IT player. We manage the entire IT chain, providing complete solutions, from workplace automation to cloud technology and telecom.’

‘Our expertise spans high-tech audio-visual solutions—videoconferencing, narrowcasting, interactive whiteboards—alongside server and storage solutions, plus responsible disposal and recycling of IT hardware, all with a strong focus on security and sustainability.’

‘We offer tailor-made solutions, make IT personal, and truly understand our customers. But above all, we are forward-thinking and decisive. We work closely with numerous partners, enabling us to act as digital accelerators. What we have achieved in such a short time is truly remarkable. The market and our customers see and feel the difference. And we are only at the beginning of the next stage of our growth journey,’ says Maaike with determination.

The future: fast-tracking growth

Maaike Dekkers concludes: ‘Last year, we achieved a great deal—launching our new brand, expanding sales, establishing our own cyber-security unit, and more. We have also dedicated a lot of energy to involving our partners, customers, and employees in our growth journey. MG Partners and their experts are actively involved, which really helps us.

‘The coming year is all about further growth and acceleration. MG Partners gives me, as an entrepreneur, the freedom to truly focus on business, and that’s exactly what suits me best. I want to lead the way, think ahead, and, most importantly, act!’

Letter to MG Partners

Maaike recently wrote a letter of reflection to MG Partners: ‘Over the past few years, we have achieved more than we ever imagined possible. Our growth journey has been incredible, but it is far from over. We are now entering the next stage.’

‘This year, we are focused on strengthening our foundation and continuing to grow. We have secured new client contracts with strong margins, reinforced our finance team, and strengthened our banking relationships.’

‘I am looking forward to our strategic discussions with MG on how we can further strengthen Vooruit through buy-and-build. I appreciate your positive and constructive approach. Together, we can truly build something great!’

CEO of the year 2024

It was a memorable evening at the Dutch IT Channel Gala 2024, where the spotlight shone on inspiring organisations and leaders in the IT sector. Maaike Dekkers’ achievements, vision, and outstanding leadership did not go unnoticed. As the crowning achievement of her work, she was granted the CEO of the Year Award.

The jury commented: ‘She has left her mark on the IT industry by bringing multiple companies together under one umbrella to form the new IT company, Vooruit. This was not just a merger of entities, but a visionary move to unite strengths and set a new standard for innovation, collaboration, and progress in the IT sector.’