Henk Markerink is a seasoned executive with over three decades of leadership in stadium development, smart infrastructure, and urban transformation. He was instrumental in the development and long-term management of the Johan Cruijff ArenA, serving as CEO from 1996 to 2021, and played a central role in the creation of the Ziggo Dome. As one of the original forces behind the ArenA, Henk helped guide its design and construction from the early 1990s, turning it into a globally recognized model of multifunctional stadium operation, innovation, and sustainability.

Under his leadership, the ArenA became a pioneer in digital and energy innovation. Henk founded the ArenA Innovation Center to advance the digitization of stadium operations and established Amsterdam Energy ArenA BV, which delivered a landmark 3.5 MW battery system and initiated the venue’s full energy transition—a project that began as early as 2010. He also launched Amsterdam ArenA Advisory BV in 2000, through which he consulted on major international stadium projects including Allianz Arena (Munich), Estádio da Luz (Lisbon), Olympic Stadiums in Beijing and Berlin, and several 2022 FIFA World Cup venues in Qatar, as well as 2014 World Cup stadiums in Natal, Salvador de Bahia, and Porto Alegre.

Over the course of 30 years working in and around the ArenAPoort district, Henk has been an influential voice in the broader development of Amsterdam Zuidoost. He helped shape the transformation of the area from a peripheral zone into a thriving hub for sport, entertainment, culture, and commerce—leading efforts in master planning, infrastructure alignment, and stakeholder collaboration. His impact extended into civic life as well, serving as chairman of VNO-NCW in the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area and contributing to the city’s Master Plan for Zuidoost.

In recognition of his contributions, Henk was awarded the Frans Banninck Cocq Medal by the City of Amsterdam in 2021, one of the city’s highest honors. Internationally, he received the Stadium Business Award for Outstanding Achievement, highlighting his lasting influence on the global stadium industry. In addition to his executive leadership, Henk has held multiple board and advisory roles across sectors, including Sportstad Heerenveen, Zadelhoff Vastgoed, the Amsterdam Museum, and the Council for Arts and Culture in Amstelveen. With a background in architecture and structural engineering, and early career experience at Arcadis and Twijnstra Gudde, he brings both technical expertise and strategic vision to every complex challenge he takes on—whether in urban development, infrastructure, or large-scale live environments.