Interview with Dr Mark van Rijmenam

Dr Mark van Rijmenam

Key Topics:Big data, Blockchain, Tokenization and Artificial Intelligence from a strategic perspective.

Location:The Netherlands

Bio:

Dr Mark van Rijmenam is the author of three best-selling management books on big data, blockchain and AI. His latest book – The Organisation of Tomorrow – details how AI, blockchain and analytics turn your business into a data organization. He is the founder of Datafloq, a leading content platform on emerging technologies. He recently founded Mavin, a decentralized reputation-based content network to bring (anonymous) accountability to the internet. He holds a PhD in Management from the University of Technology in Sydney, where he did research how big data, blockchain and AI are changing organisations. He is member of the 2Tokens project in The Netherlands, developing a roadmap towards realising value from Tokenisation. He is the publisher of the ‘f(x) = ex‘ newsletter, read by thousands of executives, on the future of work and the organization of tomorrow. Dr Van Rijmenam has spoken in 20 countries across the globe and collectively inspired over 100.000 managers, directors and C-level executives.

How did you get to become an expert in your key topics?

In 2012, I started Datafloq and started researching how organisations can benefit from emerging technologies such as Big data. At that time, Big Data was new to almost any organisation and having gained some experience in the field, I was invited to explain what Big Data meant. From there on, more organisations started to hire me to help them understand Big Data and nowadays that has evolved in any emerging technology and how that affects an organisation. For many organisations it is difficult to understand which emerging technologies are out there and how they affect their business, simply because they are running a business and have less time to monitor the external environment. That’s where I come in nowadays. I explain what trends and new technologies are out there, what it means for business in general and how it affects a specific industry. In addition, my keynotes are inspirational and I always offer the audience clear takeaways.

What topic areas are you most passionate about?

My focus is on the future of work and how to build the organisation of tomorrow using emerging technologies including big data, blockchain, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. I believe that every organisation is a data organisation, which brings massive opportunities but also comes with great responsibilities. In my talks, I always discuss the importance of data security, data governance and data privacy to help organisations understand how to build a customer-centric business using emerging technologies.

Outside of your key topics who else influences you?

I have a lot of respect for Elon Musk, how he manages to build large, important organisations despite all the criticism he gets (especially on Tesla).

How would you describe your offline influence?

My offline influence is focused around delivering (virtual) keynotes at large events, exclusive C-level executives events or during board room sessions. In addition, I write on a weekly basis a blog on how emerging technologies change organisations and I am the author of three management books on technologies: ‘Think Bigger – Developing a Successful Big Data Strategy for Your Business’. Co-author of the book ‘Blockchain: Transforming Your Business and Our World’, which details how blockchain can be used for social good. My third book, ‘The Organisation of Tomorrow’ discusses how AI, blockchain and big data turn every business into a data organisation.

If a brand wanted to work with you, what offline/online activities would you be most interested in?

I am open to many activities that help organisations deal with emerging technologies and become a trustworthy data organisation, this includes keynotes, boardroom sessions, workshops, podcasts, video interviews, research (including white papers) and consulting.

What’s your best source of information for getting ahead of a story?

I read a lot of what is happening in the world, especially around technologies. I follow dozens of blogs on a daily basis and read several newspapers every day. In addition, I talk with many people from a variety of industries to keep myself up-to-date.

What brands have you worked with?

10+ years of experience in helping organisations understand emerging technologies and how to build data-driven and information-centric organisations that can tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges. I focus on the organisation of tomorrow and the future of work. Previous clients include AWS, Fujitsu, Microsoft, Wipro, YonYou, FWD, Capgemini, Boma, HPE, MTC, Intel, IBM, SNS, Terrapinn and many others.

Which non-paid activities would you be keen to take part in if the opportunity raised your profile or delivered value to your audience?

Provide a quote for content or news article
Share / create a social post
Participate in a podcast or webinar
Participate in online chat (e.g. Twitter chat, Crowdchat, Google Hangout)
Create video content

What are your passions outside of work?

I love travelling and exploring the world.

What businesses / organisations are you affiliated to?

I am the founder of Datafloq, a leading content platform on emerging technologies. I recently founded Mavin, a decentralized reputation-based content network to bring (anonymous) accountability to the internet.

What would be the best way for a brand to contact you?

Email: mark@datafloq.com