Jan-Pieter Cootjans

AI Advisor

Brussels Metropolitan Area

About

If you know your company needs to do something with AI but you're not sure where to actually start, that's exactly the conversation I have every week. I help SMEs and corporates take their first real steps with AI. Not the hype version. The practical version: finding the right use case for your specific situation, running a first experiment that produces something real, and building enough internal confidence to keep going. My background is in venture building, spending years moving between large corporates and startups, helping both sides turn rough ideas into things that actually work. That's the same muscle you need for AI adoption. It's not a technology problem. It's a "what do we try first, with whom, and how do we know if it's working" problem. What I typically help with: identifying where AI creates real value in your business (not just where it's trendy :), getting a first use case off the ground without a six-month strategy process, and making the case internally so it doesn't die in committee. If that sounds familiar, let's talk.

Experience

  • Venture Builder - Agentic AI at Ixor
    May 2025 - Present · 1 yr 3 mos

  • Co-Founder at Agifly
    Jan 2020 - Apr 2025 · 5 yrs 4 mos

    Agifly is a Brussels-based digital product studio. • Work with key accounts on complex digital projects (Luminus, ING, NMBS) and government agencies (VVSG, parking.brussels). • Work closely with universities and research institutes (VITO, Energyville) to bridge technology and business strategy. • Drive product innovation, growth strategies, and partnerships that support sustainable growth. • Participate in Horizon Europe grants to develop a digital twin for energy-efficient renovations.

  • Innovation & Venture Building at Vinçotte
    Oct 2019 - Dec 2020 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Helping Vinçotte modernise its inspection services and build a structured innovation pipeline. • Led innovation sprints to turn ideas into Proofs of Concept (PoCs) and Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). • Launched a new Remote Visual Inspection service, taking it from concept to full commercialization. • Provided innovation coaching to teams, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and faster time-to-market.

  • Agile Coach at Ypto
    Feb 2018 - Sep 2019 · 1 yr 8 mos

    Supported SNCB’s IT transformation by introducing Agile methodologies at scale. • Led the implementation of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) to improve coordination across teams for strategic project. • Managed cross-functional collaboration between NMBS, Ypto, and key stakeholders to align on strategic goals. • Trained teams and leadership on Agile best practices, fostering a culture of adaptability and efficiency.

  • Managing Partner at Freeedrive - Safe driving
    Mar 2016 - Feb 2018 · 2 yrs

    Co-founded Freedrive, a safety-focused mobile app for hands-free driving. • Led product development for the iOS and Android apps, ensuring seamless user experience. • Built and executed a go-to-market strategy, securing partnerships and early adopters. • Oversaw business operations, finance, and growth initiatives. (Featured in national media for pioneering work in mobile safety solutions.)