About Daan van Beek

Daan van Beek is a leading authority in the fields of Business Intelligence (BI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), renowned for his unique vision on how data-driven organizations can succeed. With a career spanning more than two decades, Daan has helped countless companies transform through data insights and innovative technology. As the Managing Director of Passionned Group, he is a strategic advisor to top executives, aiding them in their journey to becoming data-driven organizations.

Professional background

Daan earned a degree in Administrative Information Science from Open University in the Netherlands and later pursued a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence at Middlesex University in London, UK. After completing his studies, he set out to help organizations unlock the potential of data and technology, making them more accessible and practical. This mission inspired him to found Passionned Group, a consultancy and training firm focused on helping companies become smarter and more data-driven.

Alongside his role as Managing Director at Passionned Group, he has been a part-time trainer in Business Intelligence (BI) and Data Analytics at TIAS School for Business and Society since 2014. From 2015 to 2021, he also served as a trainer at Erasmus University in Rotterdam. Previously, Daan worked as Manager of BI at Brocacef/Phoenix and as a BI consultant at VODW, gaining extensive experience in driving data-driven transformations in organizations. He has also delivered keynote speeches at international events, such as the BI conference in Helsinki.

History of Passionned Group

Passionned Group's story began in 2004, founded by Daan van Beek with a vision to transform how organizations use data, not just for reports, but to drive real, impactful change. With no formal plan but a clear goal, Daan aimed to break organizational silos and promote smarter, data-driven decision-making. Over the past 20 years, Passionned Group has grown into a leading consultancy and training firm, guiding thousands of organizations and professionals toward becoming intelligent, agile enterprises that leverage data for success.

Daan as a writer

Writing is one of Daan's biggest passions. As a writer, he has produced several significant books that explore the transformative power of data in modern organizations. These books are essential reading for anyone aiming to leverage data for sustainable growth.

De intelligente, datagedreven organisatie is an insightful guide for businesses striving to leverage data for decision-making and strategic growth. The book outlines how organizations can evolve into intelligent, data-driven entities by integrating Business Intelligence (BI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their operations. With practical examples, frameworks, and case studies, Daan emphasizes the importance of creating a data-centric culture that drives innovation and efficiency. This book is aimed at leaders who want to integrate data into their organizational strategies.

The PDCA Handboek – Datacratisch werken offers a detailed exploration of the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle as a framework for continuous improvement in data-driven organizations. This handbook bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing clear steps for implementing a "datacratic" way of working. It emphasizes the importance of using data to enhance decision-making and operational processes, making it an essential resource for those looking to integrate data into every level of their organization.

The Data Science Book for Decision Makers and Data Professionals offers a comprehensive guide to harnessing the power of data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Covering both organizational and technical aspects, it explores key algorithms, tools, and over 50 case studies to help organizations build a data-driven foundation. This 432-page book balances theory with practical examples, providing step-by-step insights on how to effectively implement data science projects for measurable success.

Daan as a speaker

Daan's ability to communicate complex data concepts in an accessible and relatable way has made him a favorite among industry leaders and data professionals alike. Whether speaking to small groups or large audiences, he consistently delivers valuable insights that inspire organizations to take actionable steps toward becoming more data-driven. His focus on practical solutions ensures that attendees leave with a clear understanding of how to apply data and AI strategies in their own business environments.

He is a highly sought-after speaker in the fields of BI and AI, known for delivering insightful and engaging presentations. He has spoken at prestigious conferences around the world, including in New York, New Delhi, Kuala Lumpur, Helsinki, Kiev, Singapore, and others. Daan's talks focus on the transformative power of data, offering practical strategies for organizations to become more data-driven. His dynamic style, combined with real-world examples, ensures that his presentations resonate with diverse audiences, from executives to data professionals.

Daan as a trainer

Teaching courses is one of Daan’s passions. He enjoys sharing his knowledge in a dynamic and engaging way, always ensuring students are involved by answering their questions and offering a personalized learning experience. In addition to leading Passionned Group’s training programs, Daan has been a part-time BI and Data Analytics trainer at TIAS School for Business and Society since 2014, and previously taught at Erasmus University.

Training courses:

Data Science
Business Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence
Lean Black Belt
CRM

On the left is a list of all the training courses Daan teaches through Passionned Group. They take place a few times per year. All courses are offered in Dutch at the Berghotel, Amersfoort, and can be booked through the Passionned Group website. These courses reflect his vision of empowering companies through data, with practical education that equips over 3,000 professionals with the skills to drive innovation and optimization. Passionned Group also offers many other courses taught by other data experts.

Daan as a consultant

Daan van Beek has extensive experience as a Business Intelligence consultant. In his early career, he worked as a consultant and project manager at VODW, where he helped organizations implement BI, management information, and performance management solutions. He successfully executed projects for major clients like Interpolis, Rabobank, KLM Cargo, and Woonfonds Hypotheken.

In addition to his early consulting work, Daan has spent the last 20 years providing expert consultancy through Passionned Group. He has guided numerous organizations on their journey to becoming more data-driven, helping them effectively implement Business Intelligence and AI strategies. His consultancy work focuses on transforming data into actionable insights, optimizing decision-making, and creating intelligent organizations. With his deep expertise and hands-on approach, Daan continues to support businesses across various industries.

Values and Vision

Some of Daan’s achievements

Personal interests

In his personal time, Daan enjoys a variety of interests combining intellectual and outdoor pursuits. He appreciates science and nature, which fuels his hobbies like bird watching and reading. For more active activities, Daan enjoys playing golf, exploring trails on his mountain bike, and immersing himself in the natural world. These interests provide a balance between his professional life and his passion for staying connected with the environment.