Regien Haarbosch
Regien has been with Voxius since March 1, 2015. She studied law at Leiden University and has previously worked as an attorney, a real estate agent, and a corporate lawyer. She lives in Oosterbeek.
What do you focus on at Voxius?
From the moment I first became involved in executive search, I was fascinated by Risk & Compliance. Back then, it wasn’t exactly the most popular field. Compliance professionals were often seen as the organization’s moral guardians: the department that says “no.” We know better now. Good compliance professionals help organizations move forward without losing sight of the risks. That tension between what’s allowed, what’s required, and what works continues to fascinate me. Ultimately, it’s not about rules, but about how an organization can conduct business responsibly. Compliance is the license to operate. I also focus on Legal. Not only because that’s where my roots lie, but also because, in practice, Legal, Risk, and Compliance cannot be viewed in isolation from one another. It is precisely by understanding that interconnection that you can truly help organizations move forward.
What did you do before you started working at Voxius?
My career began in the legal profession. I found the field interesting, but I soon realized that I didn’t share the same passion for the practice as many of my colleagues. Through real estate brokerage—where I was involved in the appraisal and sale of exclusive properties—I found myself in an entrepreneurial environment that suited me better. A return to the legal field ultimately confirmed what I already knew: I get more energy from advising, interacting with people, and building relationships than from the legal work itself. In executive search, all of that came together for me. I’ve never looked back.
What part of your job gives you the most energy?
For me, executive search is essentially about trust. Clients and candidates regularly share information that goes beyond a job description or career goals. They offer insight into their ambitions, considerations, doubts, and the events that have shaped their professional lives. This calls for care, independent judgment, and honest advice. Sometimes that means a career move isn’t the right choice. Sometimes it’s enough to ask the right questions and let someone come to a decision on their own. The greatest compliment is when people return years later or refer others to us. Those are the relationships that stand the test of time and ultimately form the foundation of a strong and sustainable network.
What do you do in your free time besides your work at Voxius?
Our three children have since left home, but we still get together often for a trip, a dinner, or a weekend getaway. I also cherish the friends with whom we’ve shared the ups and downs of life for many years. I also play tennis, go running, and enjoy an active social life. Still on my bucket list is the Great Wall Marathon, ideally with one of my children. Or better yet: with the whole family.