Our people

As CEO Sjoerd Zijlstra is responsible for the overall management of the organization. On the basis of this position, he acts as problem solver, energizer and mentor. An important task consists of exercising due care for the contacts with the outside world. How to realize continuously turning developments within customer and market groups and commercial and technological developments into the development of the organization. In this connection it is important to (keep on) finding a balance between short-term thinking and acting and long-term thinking and acting.

About Sjoerd Zijlstra (1966)

Sjoerd is a generalist with an entrepreneurial spirit, who has a proven track record in the businesses services sector. In an engaged way he shapes the development of the organizations in a people-oriented and customer-oriented manner.

Sjoerd has been employed at Anker Insurance since November 2007. As from 2011 as managing director/CEO.

Other positions held by Sjoerd Zijlstra

Apart from being managing director of Anker Insurance n.v. and underlying entities, Sjoerd is also director of Anker Verzekert b.v., Anker Dienstverlening b.v. and Masblanc b.v. In addition, he is also a member of the board of management of the Stichting Koersvast and he is a member of various committees and working groups.

Other time spent

Apart from his work, Sjoerd enjoys riding motorcycles, fitness and attending concerts (underground/alternative).

As COO, Annemiek is responsible for the daily management of the operational activities of Anker. With a decisive attitude she combines solution thinking and handling with a balanced looking after the interests of the various stakeholders of Anker Insurance.
Annemiek is very experienced and skilled in analysing and improving business processes.
An important task for the COO is the continuous attention for the evolution of the insurance solutions and complementary services of Anker Insurance. To a niche and target group insurer this evolution is a matter of life and death, because this enables the company to respond to the specific wishes and needs of its customers and other stakeholders.

About Annemiek van Dijk-Bos (1983)

Annemiek has gained a lot of experience in different operational and supervising functions within Anker Insurance. She has knowledge of both the insurer activities of Anker Insurance and the activities of its distribution partners. Annemiek is a calm and enthusiastic personality, she likes to enthusiast others and is at the same time critical when needed. She is able to function well in a strong and continuously changing environment and knows how to carry her colleagues with her in this changing environment. Annemiek has been working for Anker Insurance since 2008. Since 2019 in her role as COO.

Additional jobs Annemiek van Dijk-Bos

Besides being board member of Anker Insurance Company n.v. and its subsidiaries, Annemiek is also member of the board of Stichting Vrienden van de Heuvelruiters in Wezep, the Netherlands.

Other occupations

Next to her work, Annemiek finds great pleasure in horse-riding by training her own horse and participating in competitions.

I love working in an environment where people care and are appreciated. This is what motivates me in my work as a claims handler. Providing good service to assist the crew and his/her employer is a gratefull job to do!

I am happy to contribute to customer satisfaction, particularly in the financial field.

Personal key words:

Analytical, helpful and cheerful.

What do you do daily?
I develop new insurance solutions and supplementary services tailored to the needs of our customers. We may adjust existing insurances, but we also develop new insurances and complementary services. For this we involve our customers and collaborate with our (distribution) partners. In addition, I conduct research in the field of developments in the market, with competitors and in the area of customer experience. Of course, I do this together with a dedicated team of specialists.
Furthermore, I am responsible for the marketing of Anker Crew Insurance. From this role I am involved in events, sponsoring, optimizing customer communication, branding and increasing the visibility in the market. I work closely with the online marketer, desk account managers and account managers.

‘Working at an international crew insurer is very dynamic. You have to deal with an international market. In addition, it is a real niche market that is constantly on the move. We work with an enthusiastic and dedicated team to deliver a total solution for our customers and their employees. In the event of an accident or illness, we provide the fastest and best care for maritime employees. It is fantastic to be able to contribute to this!’

Activities:
My work consists of keeping our policy conditions, agreements, application forms and claim forms up-to-date. I keep an eye on all regulations and see if this influences our insurance policies. I am also involved in product development.

“I think it is important that both my colleagues and our customers know which insurance solutions we have and the accompanying documents are clear and legible.”

Personal keywords:
Driven, cheerful and perfectionist.