SA-based digital marketing agency opens an office in Amsterdam

Jacques Du Bruyn, Managing Director at Flume, says the move into the Netherlands will contribute toward fast-tracking the agency’s growth in the region.

“Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s best agencies and is also one of the fastest-growing agency hubs in the world, so it makes sense for us to set up shop in the city,” he explains. 

“The beauty of digital marketing is that the tools and platforms don’t change based on where you’re sitting in the world.” 

He adds: “Our local team in Amsterdam will have the regional knowledge and understanding, and that paired with our technical expertise, we believe, will achieve great results.” 

Solid experience within the European market

When appointing the right candidate to lead the agency’s Amsterdam operation, Du Bruyn says Smeets came highly recommended through his network and has solid experience and expertise, particularly within Europe. In addition, Smeets aligns to Flume’s ethics and values as an agency.

Smeets started out in fashion design before studying Cultural Heritage, with a specialisation in marketing and entrepreneurship. Her most recent qualification is an Executive MBA at the Rotterdam Business School. She has extensive experience working within an agency context and has been responsible for growing a client base in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.

“I really enjoy building something from the ground up, and to work together with a team that is very excited about the opportunity as well, is something I am most looking forward to,” says Smeets. 

European cities such as Paris and Amsterdam are increasingly seen as global advertising hubs, growing in influence over traditional centres such as London.

“Amsterdam’s cultural diversity attracts creative talent from around the world, making it a hotbed for innovation in advertising, design, media [and] technology. Brands like Heineken, Nike and Playstation all thrive on the city’s vibrant mix of cultures and disciplines, which have made advertising and design one of its most important export products,” noted ADCN, the Dutch association for creativity in advertising and design.