Dirk Saltzherr’s journey at Van Lanschot Kempen began in 2006, when he joined Van Lanschot Kempen’s real estate team as a Sales Specialist, advising global institutional investors on their allocation to European listed real estate. In 2014, he made the move to Corporate Finance, focusing on European real estate transactions. By January 2021, Dirk stepped into his current role as Co-Head of Investment Banking—responsible for strategic development, operations, and change at Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Banking. 

Today, Dirk oversees all commercial activities across Corporate Finance, Equity Capital Markets, and Equities – spanning Van Lanschot Kempen’s core sectors – European real estate, Life Sciences and Benelux. Dirk believes it’s the collaborative culture that sets the Investment Banking team apart. “What stands out at Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Banking is the long-term focus. The objective is to create long-term value for our clients in our chosen core sectors. There is also a strong culture of collaboration across disciplines – Corporate Finance, ECM, Research and Sales – which is essential in today’s market environment,” he explains. 

Reflecting on what he values most in his work, Dirk emphasizes the importance of teamwork and client impact: “What I enjoy most is working with highly driven professionals on complex strategic questions where client impact, judgment and teamwork really matter: the business is all about creating value for our clients.” 

Recent years have brought new opportunities for innovation. Dirk is particularly excited about the planned joint venture with KBC Securities. “It’s a rare opportunity to rethink the business model end-to-end – commercially, operationally and culturally – while safeguarding the strategic relevance of Investment Banking for both our clients and the firm,” he shares. “If regulatory approval comes through, the project will bring together strategy, governance, regulatory design, and execution. We’re aiming to create a scalable, competitive platform that enhances client relevance while ensuring long-term profitability. Being part of this transformation is particularly meaningful, as it directly shapes the next chapter of Equities business at Van Lanschot Kempen.”