When examining the landscape of international business advisors, few professionals demonstrate the comprehensive approach that Maarten de Jeu has developed throughout his career. The founder and Managing Director of SVM Business Advisory has established himself as a trusted partner for organizations navigating the complexities of global expansion since founding his Chicago-based firm in 2012.
Story Stages
Educational Foundation Shapes Global Perspective
Maarten de Jeu’s approach to business strategy stems from a strong educational background. After completing his Master of Arts in Social Science with a focus on Public Administration at Leiden University in 2001, he pursued an MBA at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. His academic performance was exceptional – he graduated first in his class at Oxford, receiving the Dean’s Prize for his achievements.
This international education, combined with his multilingual capabilities (fluent in Dutch, English, French, and German), provided de Jeu with the tools to operate effectively across diverse business environments. His language skills have proven particularly valuable when bridging cultural gaps that often create obstacles in international business expansion.
From Corporate Strategy to Independent Advisory
Before establishing SVM Business Advisory, Maarten de Jeu gained valuable experience at major corporations. His early career included time at TVDK Management Consultants in Amsterdam, where he worked with prominent clients including ABN AMRO, ING, Sara Lee, and Heinz.
His career trajectory took a significant turn when he joined Aviva plc, one of the world’s largest insurance companies. Initially serving as an international consultant in London, de Jeu developed strategies for market expansion across Europe and Asia. His success led to a promotion and relocation to Chicago, where he took on the role of Director of Strategy & Corporate Development for Aviva North America from 2008 to 2012.
At Aviva, de Jeu led strategic business portfolio reviews, evaluated new business opportunities, and supported mergers and acquisitions. Under his guidance, a comprehensive five-year strategy was implemented that helped increase the company’s life insurance business in the United States.
Building SVM Business Advisory
In 2012, leveraging his corporate experience and global perspective, Maarten de Jeu founded SVM Business Advisory. The firm specializes in international business strategy, financial services, and commercial real estate investment, with a client network spanning North America, Europe, and Asia.
What distinguishes de Jeu’s approach is his combination of technical expertise with deep cultural understanding. This balance has proven particularly effective when helping clients navigate the nuances of international business expansion.
His work through SVM has included several notable achievements. For one ultra-high net worth investor, de Jeu managed the acquisition of over 1,000 apartment units, handling everything from financial modeling to deal negotiations and due diligence. The project showcased his ability to execute large-scale real estate transactions while managing complex financial considerations.
Beyond Business: Community Leadership
Maarten de Jeu balances his business endeavors with active community involvement. He maintains memberships in prominent organizations including the Economic Club of Chicago, Chicago Council on Global Affairs, and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy Dean’s International Council.
His philanthropic interests extend to cultural and educational institutions, including the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, where he co-chaired the museum’s Science Spins program. This involvement reflects his commitment to educational initiatives that inspire innovation among young people.
De Jeu also supports local charitable work in Chicago, including Temple Sholom’s Monday Meal Mitzvah program, which provides hot meals to homeless and underserved residents in Chicago’s Lakeview community.
Through his professional achievements and community engagement, Maarten de Jeu exemplifies how international business expertise can be applied effectively both in global corporate settings and local community contexts. His career demonstrates that sustainable success in international business requires more than technical knowledge—it demands cultural awareness, strategic vision, and a commitment to creating value for clients and communities alike.
