DRIVING PROGRESS, INNOVATING TO IMPROVE LIVES

Roy Jakobs, CEO Philips, on the next chapter for the health technology company

Building on a legacy of almost 135 years of innovation on Dutch soil, Philips is marking a new chapter with the transfer of its global headquarters to Zuidas. This step is also a symbolic one, moving to a location that embodies progress, connection and collaboration – values that seamlessly align with Philips’ purpose to improve people’s health and well-being through meaningful
innovation. Instead of commissioning a new building, Philips has deliberately opted for the transformation of an existing property, reflecting the company’s sustainable approach to innovating while honoring what is already in place. From the light, open spaces of its new corporate headquarters, Philips and its partners – from hospitals to universities – are working every day on solutions
that make lives better. Zuidas offers an inspiring setting in which to pursue this mission, as well as a vibrant community in which Philips wishes to become an active member and contribute to a healthy future. An interview with CEO Roy Jakobs.

Roy – to you and Philips – welcome to Zuidas!

Philips recently moved its global HQ here. How do you see this move for the company?

“This is a special moment for us. Philips was founded in the Netherlands nearly 135 years ago. The Netherlands is our home – the place from which we’ve launched new ideas and innovations to the world. Moving our global headquarters to Zuidas feels like both a continuation of that story and the start of an exciting new chapter. Zuidas represents progress, connection and collaboration – all things that define who we are today as a health technology company.”

How does this new location support Philips’ strategy?

“We work with our many partners every day to help deliver better care for more people across the globe, responsibly and sustainably. Our new home at Zuidas supports that. It’s designed for collaboration and innovation, making it easier for teams to connect and work with our partners like hospitals and universities. This drives impact for patients and customers – and helps us attract the best talent to shape a better, healthier future through meaningful innovation.”

What’s been the biggest change for Philips in moving to Zuidas?

“I hear from many colleagues that they feel much more connected to each other. The set-up and design of our new space makes all the difference. I feel it too. Beyond the physical space, I also see and feel a fresh sense of energy and optimism as we settle into a neighborhood that feels international but also distinctly Dutch. There’s a lot happening at Zuidas, like the developments at Station Zuid. It all points to progress and a feeling of community.”

How are you and your colleagues enjoying the new neighborhood?

“Zuidas is really about the people – the people who live here and those of us working here. Many of our colleagues walk or cycle to the office and visit local cafés, and I believe we all feel part of the community here. That connection between people, business and community is important. And being a good neighbor matters to us as we want to ensure our presence adds value to Zuidas as a place to live and work.”

Was it a conscious decision to transform an existing building instead of constructing something new?

“Sustainability was a key priority from the very start. By transforming an existing building we were able to reduce our environmental footprint – from limiting construction waste to minimizing the use of new materials and energy during the build. We believe in building on what’s already strong. That mindset mirrors the way we approach innovation at Philips, where we continuously improve what works, renew where needed, and make things better for the future.”

What new opportunities do you see for Philips?

“Healthcare is under immense pressure. There are more patients, and care teams simply need more time. We’re working to change that. With AI, for example, we’re helping free up time so care teams can focus on patients. What used to take 20 minutes, in some cases, now takes one click. That’s just the beginning. We’re excited about the amazing things happening across healthcare, from earlier diagnoses to better treatments. And we see huge opportunities to make real impact for people everywhere and for society.”

Looking ahead, how do you see Philips evolving from your new home in Amsterdam?

“I see a company that’s proud of its heritage and excited about its future. We’ll continue to lead in health technology through innovation, using AI, data and deep clinical insights to improve lives both here in the Netherlands and globally. The beating heart of Philips is in the Netherlands. Together with our partners – from here in Amsterdam and our sites in Drachten, Best and Eindhoven – we’ll keep driving progress and innovating, delivering better care for more people.”