Erik Graadt van Roggen

Ideas that matter

After studying Communications Science, Erik Graadt van Roggen hosted the TV series Startbaan (‘Runway’) for Amsterdam TV station, AT5, in the mid 90s. AT5 was the first Dutch public TV station to become independent. Ever since, Erik has built strong bridges between brands and media in a variety of marketing, PR and management roles including stints at Wegener Arcade (commercial radio and TV), Robin Good (an event company) and leading broadcasting company, KRO.

Bold brand work

At Cohn & Wolfe Benelux, Erik is responsible for creative concepts like “The Cleanest Beach Award,” and the 50th anniversary of the immensely popular Dutch snack, the Frikandel, which generated a 4,000% ROI. Erik is also the global PR manager for the open air art exhibition, Elephant Parade, an event that has raised more than $7 million over the past 3 years. He believes that journalists and editors have an insatiable hunger for content, but they won't eat it all; discovering the brand stories that really raise a reporter's eyebrows is an ongoing but satisfying challenge.

Career highlight

In 2006, he started as Director of Client Services for Cohn & Wolfe after literally bumping into the HR officer’s car in downtown Amsterdam. Still, he managed to become managing director of the company in 2007. Erik, father of three girls, is a leap year baby and considers himself a Sunday’s child ("…the child who is born on the Sabbath Day / Is bonny and blithe and good and gay”).