MEET THE TEAM: Freelancer Ruud

Time to introduce you to Ruud, our freelance project manager at Act-Wise. A man with years of experience, a passion for technology, but also for freedom, fun and… biscuits that don’t actually belong to him.

Ruud knows the IT world like the back of his hand. After 24 years in the industry, 21 of which at Dell in a variety of roles – from support to project management, sales and management – he decided to go his own way three years ago. His company Bounce Soulutions was born. Since then, he has worked as an independent project manager, ensuring that projects run smoothly, smartly and professionally. No stress, no chaos, just everything tightly on track.

Ask Ruud about his favourite holiday destination and the answer comes without a second thought: Ibiza. ‘One foot on the island and it feels like coming home.’ What makes Ibiza so special to him? The combination of everything good: pristine nature, pearly white beaches, good food, sports, energetic work… AND yes: the legendary party scene. Because even a seasoned project manager needs to throw off his dancing legs now and then. With a sauce of good beats, everything tastes just that little bit better.

Even close to home, Ruud knows how to find peace. The Pajottenland is his Belgian favourite: a green landscape of fields and charming villages that you can enjoy cycling through. Away from deadlines, to-do’s and phones. Just fresh air, silence and the freedom to set your own pace.

In terms of food, Ruud is a man of tradition: nothing like a plate of steaming chicory in ham. But at the office, he lovingly pecks away at biscuits that were actually meant for someone else. Or from the mysterious drawer everyone has, full of forgotten snacks. Everything tastes better when you find it unexpected, right?

Suppose Ruud was allowed to choose a superpower? Then he went all-in: flying AND breathing underwater. No more traffic jams, no more delays, just ultimate freedom. Who knows, he might soon be working on projects from the air or deep under the sea?

A tent in the countryside or a luxury resort with cocktails at your fingertips? Ruud chooses both. Freedom and comfort – just like in his job, where flexibility and structure go hand in hand.

After the working day, a warm gang awaits at home: his wife Heidi, daughter Zoë and cats Rambo (pitch black) and Ellis (British shorthair). And in his mind also still Ezrah, their cat who died far too early – ‘long story,’ he says with a smile. But those who know Ruud know: everything and everyone gets a place with him.

Ruud? He does not fit standard sizes. Not even his shoes: 42 and three quarters.

A project manager with experience, a heart for adventure and a weakness for biscuits that don’t belong to him. We are only too happy to see such a freelancer on the team at Act-Wise.