Benjamin Van der Hilst

Observer
DISC Type : ic

Chief Executive Officer at Avy

Netherlands

Overview

Benjamin van der Hilst is the CEO of Avy, where he leads the scaling of autonomous drone networks for emergency response and security. With a Masters in Science and Innovation Management from Utrecht University, he focuses on turning ambitious technological concepts into operational, real-world solutions that protect people and critical infrastructure.

Benjamin has a deep-rooted interest in creating social impact through business. His previous work focused on developing inclusive business models for the Base of the Pyramid, aiming to provide essential services to the worlds poorest populations. This passion is complemented by a commitment to sustainability, for which he was previously recognized.

Unique fact: He wrote his Masters thesis on developing innovation systems to help alleviate poverty for the four billion people at the Base of the Pyramid.

Personality Overview

Curious

Example Seeker

Value Driven

They are likely to ask many questions and look heavily for supporting information.  They can sound friendly and charming but can quickly change gears to become inquisitive and probing. They are generally good communicators and can be hard to convince.

Topics They Care About

Autonomous Drone Networks
As CEO of Avy, his primary focus is scaling the company's long-range VTOL drone networks for emergency services and security across Europe.
Emergency Response Tech
He is passionate about using technology for good, specifically deploying drones to rapidly assist in medical emergencies, disaster response, and finding missing persons.
Defence & Security
He is currently expanding Avy's focus to include defence applications, recently securing a contract to test drones with the Dutch Ministry of Defence.

Media Appearances

Avy Appoints New CEO to Advance Emergency Drone Networks. Featured in DroneLife

See Now

Work History

12-2024
Chief Executive Officer at Avy
9-2022 - 12-2024
Chief Product Officer at Avy
11-2021 - 10-2022
Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Avy
1-2018 - 1-2020
Owner, freelancer at Bende
Inclusive Innovator at BoP Innovation Center

Education

2009 - 2012
Master from Utrecht University
2005 - 2009
Bachelor from Utrecht University

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 12 Location : Netherlands Job Level : Leadership Designation : Chief Executive Officer at Avy
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Insights For Selling To Benjamin

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Ask them questions to understand their needs better while staying affable
  • Be prepared for a lot of questions, answer them objectively
  • Use phrases like ‘clear proof that’, ‘data shows’ etc.

DONT's

  • Avoid making offhand commitments
  • Don’t be too objective but make sure to pad your storytelling with data points
  • Don’t brush off any concerns, take all questions seriously

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Benjamin is

  • Proven value, strong testimonials are important to them, relationships will have some weightage.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Benjamin

  • They are practical and friendly, don't expect a clear-cut response often.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Benjamin move?

  • They like to be detailed and take their time to arrive at decisions.
  • Can Benjamin take some risk or not?

  • They evaluate their decisions systematically and are less likely to take risks.

You And Benjamin

Personality Compatibility


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