KOP's Advisory Board for strategic advice: Ron Nap

From hustle to flow (and back again)

Most entrepreneurs launch their businesses chasing freedom, autonomy, and purpose. But as the company grows, so does the complexity. Decisions get bigger, risks get trickier, and your mind fills up fast. Before you know it, you’re not running a business. You’re surviving it.

Ron Nap, founder of Boardtrust, strategic advisor, and member of KOP’s Advisory Board, helps entrepreneurs reclaim both direction and breathing room. “Many founders reach a point where they want to move forward, but something’s holding them back. Together, we figure out what that ‘something’ is. Sometimes it’s structure, sometimes leadership, and often…it’s just you.”

A connection that became a sounding board

Ron’s bond with Marius Bos started over a decade ago during a shared training session. “We clicked instantly and had a blast. We’ve stayed in touch ever since,” Ron recalls.

The connection deepened during covid, as the events industry faced unprecedented disruption. With one business transforming into two, it was time to chart a new course. Enter a newly formed management team.

From advice to active involvement

When space opened up in that team, Marius remembered Ron’s earlier advice: “Dare to hire people for key roles who are stronger than you expect. Professionals who don’t just execute, but think and drive the company forward.”

Marius asked Ron to help in that search and to advise on broader management strategy. “I suggested he consider forming an Advisory Board. A structured sounding board to tackle the big-picture issues.”

Soon after, Marius invited Ron to join the Advisory Board. “I thought about it, then said yes. I like the guy. Complex at times, sure, but with a big heart and serious talent. Plus, I enjoy helping people and felt I could genuinely contribute.”

Making space for leadership

Ron saw a strong foundation at KOP. “The craft here is mastered. The quality and reputation are rock solid. But I also knew that as a growing entrepreneur, Marius risked carrying too much on his own.”

That’s where an Advisory Board proves its value: a sparring partner, a mirror, and a strategic sounding board. “Entrepreneurship can be lonely. Having someone to share challenges, worries, and decisions with is incredibly powerful. You’re not alone.”

Ron and Peter help Marius sharpen his leadership and shape a forward-looking strategy. “Now, Marius often checks in with us before making moves. Sometimes we say: yes, great idea. Sometimes: rethink this. And sometimes: absolutely not, Marius. That extra layer brings clarity, direction, and confidence.”

Left to right: Peter van de Mark, Marius Bos and Ron Nap

Reflection, direction, and realism

The Advisory Board now focuses on Marius’s five-year vision: where does he want the company to be? And personally? “We translate that horizon into present-day choices. Are you focused enough? Asking too much of yourself? Are the right people in the right seats?”

Their role is not to steer, but to sharpen. “We ask questions, share observations, give guidance. We help him distinguish what energizes and what drains. Sometimes it’s confronting, but always respectful and always with the big picture in mind.”

Growth through letting go

Ron is direct. Honest. “I tell it like it is. Not to keep anyone up at night, but to wake them up. If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten. So, what are you doing differently today?”

And sometimes, he can’t help but intervene. “If someone repeats a mistake three times, I want to shake them awake. But ultimately, it’s the entrepreneur’s call. My role is to advise, not take over.”

Moving forward together

What does Ron hope to contribute to KOP in the years ahead? “That Marius can let go even more. That he keeps checking in with us before acting. And that he continues building a company that thrives without him.”

With the Advisory Board, KOP has added a strong compass to its journey. Ron sums it up: “We’re not here to babysit. We’re here to help build. And as long as there’s ambition and momentum, it’s a privilege to play a role.”