Innovation Strategist & Consultant
Harald Hagenaars
My story, what I’m doing, and what is my reasoning behind my services
‘Stop trying to be amazing and start being useful.’
Jay Bear, Inspirational Business Growth & Customer Experience Speaker
My Story — From Innovation Labs to Strategic Advisory
I’ve spent the past three decades immersed in innovation — from the first consumer Internet on TV application, to building next-gen automotive systems and ADAS standardization, to scaling deep tech ventures across Europe and Asia. I’ve led strategic initiatives, built partnerships, co-founded a computer vision startup, and advised on investments in AI, sensors, and cybersecurity.
Looking back, the common thread is clear: helping organizations move from idea to adoption — not just creating innovation, but embedding it where it matters.
Why I Started Diractions
After exiting my startup in 2023, I launched Diractions — a consulting firm helping organizations turn innovation into real-world value. The name blends “directions” and “actions”: strategic clarity, turned into results.
Based near Eindhoven, The Netherlands, I work with clients navigating complexity — from early-stage pilots to scalable ecosystems.
My Approach
I specialize in companies working between TRL 4–9 — where ideas are proven technically, but not yet commercially. I help align product, business model, and go-to-market — bridging top-down strategy with bottom-up execution.
If you’re looking to translate vision into traction — or traction into scale — let’s talk.
Testimonials
What my clients and former colleagues say?
Harald’s comprehensive research of market drivers and his keen insight provided a solid foundation for strategic decisions and business development activities. He was always a professional that followed up on-time and delivered results.
Pedro Febles Cortez, Director Client Solutions NavInfo
I was fortunate enough to work together with Harald on various projects. His ability to understand the customer and formulate their business requirements was essential when creating product requirements and developing new product designs.
Paul Deckers, Senior Product Manager Mapscape
He has a great eye for business opportunities and is able to motivate people accordingly and into the right direction. He has a very professional attitude and is always willing to help you out. Next to this, he is always cooperating in a constructive manner, regardless of the subject at hand.
Jan van Moll, Head of Quality Assurance/Engineering
