Team
Marcel van Roessel
Master Distiller
Marijn Blaakman
Distiller and quality assurance specialist
Marijn Blaakman relocated from Breskens to Brabant to become the distiller and quality assurance specialist at BUS Whisky. He plays a crucial role in maintaining the high-quality standards of our distillery. Marijn is entrusted with refining the distillation process and closely monitoring quality at every stage of production. With a keen eye for detail, he ensures that every bottle of BUS Whisky meets the highest standards. His expertise and passion for whisky contribute to the unique flavor profiles and the growing reputation of BUS, both nationally and internationally.
Bram Huvenaars
Distiller & Chief bottling
Bram Huvenaars is a true all-rounder. Not only is he a skilled distiller, but he also leads the bottling department at BUS Whisky, where his team handles the shipping and processing of all orders. Bram embraces innovation and renewal. He experiments with cultivating the unique yeast strain of BUS Whisky. Additionally, his passion as a brewer drives an innovative project where the by-products of the distillation process are transformed into a new line of non-alcoholic beverages. In this way, he strengthens BUS's role as a sustainable pioneer in the global beverage industry. Furthermore, he supports the commercial team a few days a week.
Fieke van der Pas
Bottling operator
Fieke van der Pas is a bottling operator at BUS Whisky, where she is responsible for the careful and precise bottling of the artisanal whisky. Her role is crucial in the final stage of the production process, ensuring that each bottle is filled with precision and sustainably sealed with beeswax from BUS’s own apiary. With her attention to detail and dedication, Fieke contributes to maintaining the high standards for which BUS Whisky is renowned.
John Brouwers
Distiller
John Brouwers is a distiller at BUS Whisky, combining his passion for whisky with his work at the Mars chocolate factory in Veghel. Despite his full-time job, he dedicates at least one evening a week to supporting the BUS Whisky team during their shifts. With his technical expertise and attention to detail, John helps ensure the premium quality of BUS Whisky.
Frank van Veghel
Financial manager & Chief tourguide
Frank van Veghel is the financial manager of BUS Whisky and also serves as the chief tour guide. With extensive experience in the M&A world of mergers and acquisitions, he brings in-depth knowledge of corporate finance and investments to BUS Whisky. His expertise even extends to whisky investment for investors. As chief tour guide, Frank shares his passion and knowledge of both whisky and investing with visitors, guiding them not only through the production processes but also through the business side of the whisky industry and whisky investment.
Anja Ariëns
Finance administrator
Anja Ariëns is the linchpin of the financial administration at BUS Whisky, where she is responsible for managing and optimizing all financial processes. From invoicing to accounting, and from excise declarations to preparing the annual financial statement, she handles it all with precision. Her combination of professionalism and a warm personal approach creates a pleasant work environment and contributes to the positive company culture at BUS Whisky.
Kim van de Loo
Commercial manager
Kim van de Loo, as the commercial manager, holds ultimate responsibility for the commercial activities at BUS Whisky. Having honed her skills for more than 12 years at A Brand New Day and Lekker Fris, she knows the spirits industry like the back of her hand. With her extensive experience, she focuses on expanding BUS Whisky’s presence in both national and international markets. Kim builds strong relationships with partners and distributors, leveraging her knowledge of the beverage industry and passion for the BUS brand to conquer new markets. Her strategic approach and ability to spot opportunities make her the driving force behind the rollout of BUS Whisky. Her motto: "Let’s make it happen!"
Victor ten Wolde
Business Development Manager
Victor ten Wolde brings over 25 years of experience in the beverage industry to his role as Business Development Manager at Bus Whisky. He will establish the export strategy and manage key accounts in the Netherlands. Previously, Victor spearheaded international growth at Zamora Company, where he launched brands like Licor 43 and Martin Miller’s Gin in Asia, South America, and Southern & Eastern Europe. At Diageo, Victor worked globally on the commercial development of Ketel One Vodka. Within Moët Hennessy Diageo, he managed iconic brands such as Johnnie Walker, Baileys, and Tanqueray in Malaysia and Singapore. With his expertise in market development, strategic insight, and passion for premium beverages, Victor is poised to position Bus Whisky internationally and drive further growth.
Rob Salimans
Brand Ambassador
Rob Salimans is a brand ambassador and inside sales representative at BUS Whisky, where he serves as the face of the brand while also supporting internal commercial processes. As a brand ambassador, Rob represents BUS Whisky at events and trade fairs, sharing his passion for the brand and his extensive knowledge of whisky with customers and partners. In his role as an inside sales representative, he supports sales activities, maintains customer relationships, and contributes to daily operations. Rob’s enthusiasm and communication skills make him a valuable cornerstone of BUS Whisky's commercial team.
Marco Smits
Freelance Brand Ambassador
Marco Smits is a freelance whisky ambassador for BUS Whisky, representing the BUS brand at trade shows and festivals. With his passion for whisky and strong communication skills, Marco inspires visitors and introduces them to the unique flavors and craftsmanship of BUS Whisky. His extensive experience in the whisky field and his natural flair for storytelling make him a valuable ambassador at events.
Pim Sybesma
Leisure & travel trade
Pim Sybesma holds ultimate responsibility for leisure and travel trade activities within the BUS Whisky team. With his extensive experience in the tourism and leisure sector, he maintains valuable relationships with cruise lines, tour operators, and Destination Management Companies (DMCs). Pim plays a crucial role in expanding BUS Whisky's presence in the tourism sector by establishing collaborations and exploring new markets. His broad expertise in managing international projects ensures that BUS Whisky is a strong partner for the leisure and travel industries.
John van Wijk
Chief Front-Office & Tourguide
In addition to leading whisky tours, where John enthusiastically introduces visitors to the world of BUS Whisky, he and his front-office team are also responsible for handling all reservations, ensuring a smooth and welcoming visitor experience. John oversees the front office and manages the fan shop with his team. Together, they ensure the shop is always well-stocked and that customers receive top-notch service.
Dennis Hurkmans & Ezra Leeger
Founding Family
Dennis and Ezra started distilling whisky from their own brewing barley in 2015 and have since gathered a team of specialists around them to further build Bus as a whisky label.