Mickaël Goudmaeker

I’m an entrepreneur and executive consultant working with organizations at every scale, from startups to multinationals. My belief is simple: the organizations that last are the ones where people feel something. Not just targets met, but a sense of purpose and belonging.

I’ve always gone beyond what my role asked of me. People knew they could count on me, and that’s carried through everything. Over the years, I realized my strength wasn't about the title or being in charge. It was about being genuinely invested in what people needed and showing up when it counted. That’s what built Next to You. I wanted to make that instinct the centerpiece of my work rather than something I did on the side.

I partner with leaders on strategy, operations, and growth. I bring clarity and discipline, but also emotional intelligence. My first experience in the luxury hospitality taught me to stay flexible and just make things work.

On the people side, I help build HR departments and cultures where people actually feel invested. I spent ten years in recruitment, which taught me that the first moment of connection ripples through everything. I’ve scaled teams from zero to hundreds, and I know how to make those foundations hold.

I also spend a lot of time on the business side, building sales strategies and helping teams grow sustainably. I understand what it takes to align commercial ambition with operational reality. I care about the unglamorous work of making systems that work for real people doing real work.

When it comes to strategy, I help leaders see clearly. Most decisions aren't really about the numbers; they’re about people, fear, and commitment. Next to You is how I show up: present, involved, and committed to the outcome. Whether I’m a strategic partner or embedded in your team, the goal is to make sure you’re not alone.

I’m open to full-time or part-time roles, monthly retainers, or projects. I’m flexible about the structure if the fit is right. So, let's talk.