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Bert Vanlaere
Director of communication, marketing & sales at Concertgebouw Brugge
Professional Background
Bert Vanlaere is a distinguished professional in the fields of communication, marketing, and cultural management. With a robust academic background and extensive experience in managing communications for cultural organizations, Bert plays a pivotal role in enhancing the visibility and impact of artistic initiatives. Currently, he serves as the Director of Communication, Marketing & Sales at CONCERTGEBOUW BRUGGE, where he expertly oversees the strategic direction of marketing and communication efforts. His leadership in these areas contributes to the growth and engagement of audiences within the cultural sector, effectively bridging the gap between arts and community involvement.
Prior to his current role, Bert has held several impactful positions that illustrate his dedication and versatility in the industry. He has worked as a Gastdocent (Guest Lecturer) in Event Management at VIVES University College, where he shared his insights and knowledge, shaping the next generation of event managers. His time as a Docent (Lecturer) in Communication, Marketing & Sales at VIVES/Brugge Business School further underscored his commitment to education and mentorship in the realms of communication and marketing. In both positions, Bert utilized his wealth of experience to guide students with practical knowledge, ensuring they are well-equipped to thrive in their respective fields.
Bert's early career saw him stepping into a managerial role as the Site Manager of Fort Napoleon Ostend with Herita, where he played a pivotal part in maintaining and promoting historical sites while effectively communicating their cultural significance to the public. His experience in cultural management is further showcased by his role as the Director of Communication for the cultural festival Corpus Bruges in 2005, where he successfully managed various aspects of the festival's communications strategy, enhancing public engagement and participation.
Education and Achievements
Bert Vanlaere's academic journey began at the University of Antwerp, where he earned a Master’s degree in Cultural Management. This program equipped him with the essential skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of managing cultural initiatives and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts. Additionally, he studied Communication Sciences at Universiteit Gent, further strengthening his expertise in communication theories and practices. This dual focus on cultural management and communication provides Bert with a unique perspective, allowing him to approach challenges in creative ways.
Throughout his career, Bert has consistently demonstrated not only his capability to lead but also his passion for fostering cultural initiatives that resonate with communities. His efforts in the cultural sector are instrumental in creating sustainable programs that benefit both the audience and the artists involved.
Notable Achievements
- Director of Communication at CONCERTGEBOUW BRUGGE: In this role, Bert has successfully implemented marketing strategies that have significantly increased audience engagement and ticket sales, solidifying the venue's reputation as a premier cultural hub.
- Guest Lecturer at VIVES University College: Through his teaching, Bert has inspired countless students, imparting essential knowledge in event management while focusing on real-world applications.
- Site Manager at Fort Napoleon Ostend: His strategic vision and effective communication practices enhanced the site's appeal, making it a popular destination for cultural heritage enthusiasts.
- Director of Communication for Corpus Bruges: Managed the comprehensive communication efforts for the festival, resulting in increased attendance and enhanced community involvement in the arts.
Bert Vanlaere continues to be a pivotal figure in the cultural sector, shaping the future of communication and marketing in arts organizations, contributing to their sustained success, and finding innovative ways to connect with audiences. His commitment to education, mentorship, and professional development embodies the spirit of cultural management and its critical role in society.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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