Profile photo of Harald Hagenaars

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. My approach is shaped by 30+ years of working across software, product, corporate development, and startup innovation. I’ve been inside the machine — building, scaling, and integrating innovation — not just advising from the outside.

What sets me apart is the way I connect technical depth with business strategy, and visionary thinking with operational pragmatism. I don’t stop at concepts — I work with you until the idea is validated, adopted, and delivering value.

If you’re looking to translate vision into traction — or traction into scale — let’s talk .

My Resume

Download my resume

My Skills

Technical SkillsBusiness & StrategyLeadership & Soft SkillsLanguages
AI & Machine LearningInnovation ManagementTeam LeadershipDutch (native)
Robotics & AutomationMarket AnalysisCollaborationEnglish (business fluent)
Data Analysis & VisualizationBusiness Model InnovationStrategic PlanningGerman (conversational)
Systems ArchitectureOpportunity IdentificationVendor Management
Software DevelopmentCorporate StartupAnalytical Thinking
Cloud ComputingFinancial AcumenStakeholder Management

Summary of what I offer

Experience

With over 30 years of experience across software development, systems architecture, product strategy, and corporate development, I bring both technical depth and business fluency. I’ve worked across functions and levels, including advising C-level leaders, always asking the questions that drive sound, forward-looking decisions.

Focus

I work within a clearly defined set of markets and services, allowing me to continuously refine and deepen my impact. Each new project builds on hard-earned lessons from earlier ones, creating cumulative value that benefits every client I work with.

Outcome-oriented

Every engagement begins by clarifying the outcome that matters most. I focus on uncovering the problem behind the problem, listening closely and working backwards from the result that creates real value for the client.

Network

Over two decades in automotive and intelligent mobility, and more recently in adjacent sectors like robotics and intralogistics, have given me access to a broad network of partners, suppliers, and innovators across the value chain.

Pragmatism

I take a hands-on, down-to-earth approach with a strong bias toward action and results. While I draw from Lean Startup , Corporate Startup , and other proven methods, I never follow them blindly. Every engagement is tailored to what actually solves the client’s pain points.