Gert Jan Balster has always been fascinated by science and technology and their impact on people and organisations. This has been the main theme in his career which spans more than 20 years.
Career
After graduating in physics, Gert Jan obtained a cum laude PhD in 1987 through scientific research on collisions between atomic nuclei.
Thereafter he started to work at the PTT Telematics Laboratory, which later became part of KPN Research. At KPN Research Gert Jan was as a researcher, project leader and unit manager responsible for R&D in the area of new telecommunication and datacommunication networks, mostly within international collaborations.
In 1992 Gert Jan transferred to PTT Post (subsequently TNT Post), where he held various leading and advisory positions in the fields of IT, innovation and new business development. Among other, he has been (co-)responsible for the development and deployment of electronic postal services and the renewal of the IT infrastructure of TNT Post. Moreover, he directed the development of the IT architecture and the effectuation of the corporate IT strategy of TNT Post. Look here for a detailed overview of all his positions and activities.
In 2010 Gert Jan reached the point where he needed a new intellectual challenge in his professional life and a change in his working environment. He therefore decided to offer his skills and know-how as an independent consultant in the market. Consequently, as of 2011 Gert Jan is active with his own company, Balster IT Consulting.
Characteristics
Gert Jan’s acting is characterized by brainpower, analytical ability, pragmatism and a focus on results. He is at his best where information technology is used to improve business processes or to develop new services. Gert Jan has an extensive knowledge of the IT field. Additionally, through his experience he understands the factors that are essential in the deployment of (new) IT in medium-sized and large organizations. It is not just about technology as such , but also about issues such as the acceptance by users and managers, multidisciplinary cooperation, economic efficiency, continuity, integration and scalability.
In short, Gert Jan always strives to obtain the best solution through optimal collaboration and maximum use of his broad experience and skills. If desired, he is also willing to assist in its implementation.