In conversation with Rob Voordendag of Zero Tax Consultants

MASTERS EXPO – Europe's premium business fair – brings together some 350 exceptional family and independent businesses from 12 to 16 December. But who are the people behind these companies? From an architectural masterpiece in the UAE to the perfect steak in Buenos Aires: MASTERS gained exclusive insight into the world of Rob Voordendag, partner at Zero Tax Consultants.

MASTERS EXPO – Europe’s premium business fair – brings together some 12 special (family) businesses from 16 to 350 December in a vibrant symphony of entrepreneurship. Who are the faces behind these companies? From an architectural masterpiece in the UAE to the perfect steak in Buenos Aires: MASTERS was given an exclusive insight into the world of Rob Voordendag, partner at Zero Tax Consultants.

While the tax burden and control pressure for Dutch entrepreneurs are increasing, new opportunities are looming on the Arab horizon. Zero Tax Consultants helps Dutch DGA's and SME's to set up and manage companies in the United Arab Emirates. A unique opportunity for spreading risks, transferring assets and reducing the tax burden, whereby clients are 100% shareholders, without a visa requirement. MASTERS spoke with partner Rob Voordendag.

What is your favorite museum and why?

''It's been a while since I've visited a museum, and to be honest, museums aren't high on my 6 and 8-year-old daughters' list. When we travel, they prefer other excursions. But when I'm in the UAE, I definitely want to visit the Louvre in Abu Dhabi. Not just for the art collection, but to see Jean Nouvel's architectural masterpiece in person.''

What book has recently made an impression on you?

''Nowadays I mostly read fiction, because I usually read while traveling and I like to relax. The last book I couldn't put down was I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes. A nerve-wracking thriller full of surprising twists.''

Do you have a favorite movie that you would recommend to everyone?

The Big Short is a brilliantly told true story about a group of outsiders in the financial sector. They discovered that the housing market was full of risky mortgages and decided to play on this by shorting. At first it seemed like a fool's move, but in the end they profited from the crisis of 2007-2008. The film painfully shows how unstable our economic system can be.''

“The film painfully shows how unstable our economic system can be”

What is your favorite hotel and what makes it so special?

''For me, a good hotel is not just about luxury. It is often the location, service and conditions that make it special. I have great memories of The Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia. This hotel is located in the middle of the rainforest, where nature and luxury come together in a beautiful way. Lately I often combine work and private life, and during the winter months I am often in the UAE. There we often stay at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on the Palm, an Ottoman-style hotel that is perfect for a family holiday.''

What is your favorite travel destination and what hidden gem should you not miss?

''South Africa, especially the region around Cape Town, has stolen my heart. The nature is incredibly diverse, from rugged cliffs to vast beaches and picturesque vineyards. An absolute must is the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden at the foot of Table Mountain. Climb the mountain via the Skeleton Gorge, and don't forget to visit Tokara Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.''

Which artist inspires you the most and why?

''Art is not a direct source of inspiration for me, but I can enjoy beautiful works. Lately I have been particularly fascinated by Japanese Ukiyo-e painting, especially Fuji no Yukei by Utagawa Kuniyoshi.''

Who is your favorite artist and how does his music influence your daily life?

''John Mayer, and especially his album Continuum. Wonderful to listen to in the car, especially because of his relaxed guitar music.''

What is your favorite restaurant and what dish do you recommend?

''Don Julio in Buenos Aires, located in the Palermo district, is perhaps the best steakhouse in the world. They serve only a handful of meat dishes from local beef, accompanied by homemade chimichurri and a good glass of Malbec from Mendoza. CNN named it one of the ten best restaurants in the world, and I can only agree. The simplicity and perfection are unmatched.''

What is your favorite store and what do you buy there?

''Coolblue. Their focus on customer experience and service is truly an inspiration. I buy almost all my electronics here, both for work and privately.''

MASTERS EXPO – LA BELLE ÉPOQUE 

MASTERS EXPO – Europe’s premium business fair – will present some 12 national and international parties from 16 to 350 December, merging into a vibrant symphony of entrepreneurship, where greatness is central. At this unique fair, you will be introduced to the latest innovations of special (family) businesses from more than 20 different sectors, spread over an impressive surface area of ​​40.000 m². From mobility to design, from real estate to art, and from watchmaking to business services. RAI Amsterdam is the arena where the CAPITAL OF GREAT BUSINESS takes place. This year’s La Belle Epoque edition represents the desire for greatness and the beauties of times gone by. It offers a rich symbolism that fits seamlessly with MASTERS EXPO: determination, elegance, refinement, creativity and originality, and with an irresistible charm. Want to be there? Order your tickets here.