Tapio Pekelharing

Tapio is a dynamic, seasoned lawyer and business executive with a strong entrepreneurial edge.

Starting his career in 2000 with Andersen Legal’s M&A team, Tapio quickly made his mark before moving to CMS in 2002. At CMS, one of the world’s leading law firms, he advised national and international companies—both public and private—across sectors like automotive, media, tech, and finance. His expertise extended to European and Competition law during his time at CMS Brussels, where he played a pivotal role in several landmark cartel cases before the European Commission and the European Court of Justice. In 2013, he co-founded a boutique law firm with fellow seasoned lawyers.

Since 2007, Tapio has been a advisor to several organisations with a focus on startups, scaleups, and mid-sized companies, taking on a range of strategic roles. His experience includes serving as Senior Corporate Counsel for renewable energy company Econcern, and as Senior Counsel/Team Leader for the Dutch Competition Authority (ACM). As a General Counsel, Tapio has been a key player in helping companies like G3, a global housing provider, and iP2Entertainment, a family entertainment company, navigate their fast-paced, deal-driven environments. He also served as Head of Legal & Business/COO for SteelTrace, a SaaS provider in the oil & gas industry, and currently leads Legal & Compliance for BMW Financial Services Netherlands, part of the BMW Group.

Beyond his legal career, Tapio has co-founded and invested in several businesses, including Guest Agency, a thriving creative agency working with global brands. This entrepreneurial experience gives Tapio a unique business insight that sets him apart from traditional lawyers.

Tapio has held, and continues to hold, various executive and non-executive roles in organizations eager to leverage his broad expertise across multiple sectors and growth stages.

Tapio’s blend of enthusiasm, entrepreneurial spirit, and sharp business acumen make him a trusted advisor, offering his clients a perspective that’s both informed and innovative.