Lorenzo van der Spek

Bringing innovation to the Circular Economy | Automation & AI

Netherlands

About

The global refurbished electronics market is a cowboy industry in the middle of being forced to grow up. Most people in it are struggling with that shift. I find it fascinating. The real innovation here doesn't come from manufacturers. It comes from the people doing reverse logistics. Screen polishing, battery replacement, component harvesting and much more. The ones closest to the device are the ones figuring it out. I've been in this market for 8 years. Started in social work, moved into procurement and commercial leadership, now building. What I publish about: - The mechanics and innovation of refurbishment and the secondary electronics market - AI-native operations for non-technical founders, and the adoption of AI in B2B - Circular economy unit economics, without the virtue signalling - Founder mistakes I have paid for in cash so you don't have to Big year ahead. Follow along if this is your world.

Experience

  • Co-Founder at Proofen
    Apr 2025 - Present · 1 yr 3 mos

  • Commercial Director Europe at iMint Ltd
    Jan 2026 - Present · 6 mos

    iMint operates across device buy-back, trade-in, refurbishment and redistribution, helping enterprises and partners recover value from consumer electronics throughout their lifecycle. I’m responsible for building and scaling iMint’s commercial operations across Europe, owning customer relationships, onboarding and partner development across the region.

  • Founder at Zeno Consultancy
    Nov 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 8 mos

    Procurement consultant specializing in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation. I help companies optimize spend, reduce risk, and improve supplier performance, with experience in consumer tech and international supply networks. Focused on fair, sustainable deals and long-term value creation.

  • Founder at Nexus Mobiles
    Jan 2024 - Sep 2025 · 1 yr 9 mos

    We specialize in distribution and warranty services for refurbished consumer electronics in Europe.

  • Founders Program at Antler
    Mar 2025 - Aug 2025 · 6 mos