Cos Vrins

Company: Gimv
Job Description: Senior Associate
Age: 33
Years of working experience: 7

Bio
Cos  holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Strategy and Organization from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the same university and a Bachelor’s degree in History from Utrecht University. Currently, Cos is a Senior Associate at Gimv. Prior to joining Gimv, he spent nearly six years at Quore Capital, where he held various roles, including Associate and Analyst. He started his career in M&A as a private equity intern at Foreman Capital.

What are the specialties of this talent?
Cos joined the Gimv Sustainable Cities team in The Hague in October 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience gained from his time at Quore Capital. His expertise spans across corporate finance advisory, through his extensive involvement in buy-side & sell-side deals, buy-and-build strategies, restructuring and fundraising. Cos has been involved in both public and private company transactions, working in diverse sectors such as wholesale, manufacturing, industrial and construction. With a different background than his peers, he has learned everything on the job, shaping him into a pragmatic professional. He has a high level of adaptability in both social and business context and quickly understands what is expected of him. His success stems from the blend of his past professional experiences and his inherent entrepreneurial instinct. His commitment and determination are key in driving deals forward. Cos his hallmark is a hands-on approach to deals, building long-lasting relationships, and respectful way of working. He demonstrates a rare ability to maintain attention to detail while keeping a strategic focus on the big picture and the end result.

How does the talent distinguish itself from its peers?
Cos distinguishes himself with his strong understanding of how sustainability trends shape investment opportunities in combination with an entrepreneurial attitude to source deals himself. As part of the Gimv Sustainable Cities team, he focuses on investments that contribute to a more efficient and sustainable economy. His genuine perspective on sustainable investments sets him apart from his peers. Cos is passionate about integrating sustainable investments with solid financial returns as he believes sustainability should go hand in hand with efficient and future-proof business models. He considers sustainability as a powerful tool for progress, not simply the end goal. His perspective and ability to identify innovative solutions and businesses addressing key challenges makes him as a forward-thinking leader in the field.

What impact does the talent have within the organization?
Cos has quickly become an integral part of the Gimv Sustainable Cities team in the Netherlands. He is able to leverage his experience acquired during his tenure at Quore Capital and contribute to the deal making process by combining extensive corporate finance knowledge with an investor perspective. Working closely with Rombout Poos and the rest of the team, he brings both enthusiasm and an in-depth understanding of market trends that influence sustainable investment strategies. His ability to take ownership of projects and his determination to deliver results have set him apart, enabling the team to continuously evolve their approach to sustainable investments. In less than a year, he has already been involved in high-impact projects, showcasing his ability to add value in complex, large-scale investments that align with Gimv’s strategy of contributing to a sustainable future.

What impact does the talent have outside the organization?
Cos expertise extends beyond his immediate role, as his work in sustainable investment resonates with broader market trends. His contributions to deals involving sustainable infrastructure and resource-efficient industries have influenced how businesses perceive their own sustainability efforts. Cos is seen as a trusted business professional who goes beyond the financials, focusing on the people and the story behind the numbers. Moreover, his strong relationships across various industries, developed during his years at Quore Capital, continue to prove beneficial in Gimv’s growing network, giving the firm access to new partnerships and opportunities.

To what extent does the talent makes the difference to clients?
Cos brings value to portfolio companies through his entrepreneurial approach and ability to identify long-term opportunities that support both financial and sustainability goals. His personal approach ensures that management teams feel supported throughout the investment process, while his strategic insight, determination and commitment guide companies toward growth strategies that align with their corporate goals and sustainable objectives. Cos enables management teams to stay focussed on what truly matters, by bringing clarity and direction he ensures that real value is created.

Why does the talent deserves this nomination?
Cos deserves this nomination for his combination of technical expertise, commitment to sustainable investments, and his exceptional ability to build and maintain relationships. His career trajectory from intern to senior associate, and now his role within the Gimv Sustainable Cities team, speaks volumes about his work ethic and talent. In a relatively short time, he has established himself as a key player in sustainable investment, demonstrating a clear vision for the future of the sector. His dedication to ensuring that his work not only delivers financial results but also supports a sustainable economy makes him an ideal candidate for this award. He embodies the qualities of a modern PE professional, blending technical acumen with a deep sense of purpose in addressing today’s most pressing challenges.

Any references or recommendations from clients or (colleagues)?
Cos has received strong endorsements from his colleagues at both Quore Capital and Gimv, as well as professional advisors working together with Cos, where he is recognized for his ability to drive results, maintain strong working relationships, and contribute meaningfully to the success of his teams. Cos is widely regarded as a pleasure to work with and is always willing to go the extra mile. He is a true team player, fulfilling his role as a sparring partner to both his more experienced as well as his less experienced colleagues, thereby showcasing his willingness to also invest in others. His professional network within the industry continues to grow, reflecting his reputation as a rising talent in private equity.