In the world of defense and security, where critical decisions are part of everyday life, Oracle technology empowers organizations to adapt at pace. Bram Couwberghs, vice president of defense and defense industry for EMEA is at the heart of this mission. A veteran with a passion for driving change, he’s leading a digital revolution within the defense sector.
Bram recently caught up with Executive Leadership Recruiter, Ed Glass to share his story and explain what motivated him to join the cloud leader for global business. Ed joined Oracle to recruit top talent and help clients thrive. He’s always seeking ways to find, attract, assess, and onboard key executive talent to help drive growth.
On a mission
Bram’s role leading a team driving digital transformation in defense at Oracle is both challenging and impactful. This task isn’t for the faint-hearted, but Bram’s motivation runs deep. He believes that Oracle’s mission is a crucial one, especially in today’s rapidly changing world. “If we want to remain at the forefront, we must invest in AI and technology,” he explains. This sense of purpose is what drives him to excel.
His journey to Oracle is rooted in hard work and a desire to make a difference. “My grandparents and my father were miners. I was the first person in my family to get a degree,” he shares. His work ethic was instilled early on, as he juggled night shifts in factories to fund his law studies. But it was his interest in history and a sense of duty that led him to join the military. 
His time there was eye-opening, serving on the front lines in various operations, from humanitarian missions to combat. “I realized how much effort it takes to keep everyone safe,” he reflects. This experience gave him a unique perspective, and he soon discovered the power of technology in defense. “I’ve seen how technology is tested to its limits and has a real-world impact. Now, I’m driving the transformation of the digital backbone of defense,” Bram says.
A game-changer
One of the most exciting parts of Bram’s work is the idea of a ‘digital brigade in a box.’ “Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) has a sovereign solution, a ‘government in a box,’ which can run an entire country’s digital operations. In military terms, it’s like having a fully trained and equipped brigade ready to deploy.” This level of agility and efficiency is game-changing. “A traditional military brigade takes months to become operational,” he explains, “but with OCI, it’s up and running in hours. You can train, deploy, and relocate it with ease.”
Bram’s leadership approach is impressive, too. When building his team, he seeks individuals with intrinsic motivation and a shared sense of purpose. “I hire people who want to live in a safe environment and are driven to make it happen. They must manage volatility and ambiguity, as defense timelines are often elastic,” he says. This adaptability is key to bridging the structured business world with the unpredictable defense sector.
Bram’s philosophy is inspired by the ‘team of teams’ principle where groups of teams come together to achieve greater goals. He empowers his people by giving them maximum responsibility and autonomy. “I provide directions, tools, and expertise, and then let them lead. This brings out the best in them, allowing them to tailor their approach to each customer,” he explains. This trust helps foster a culture of innovation and dedication. 
Get stuff done
However, his leadership style goes beyond strategy, and well-being is also a top priority. “I give my people flexibility in how, where, and when they work. They are present when needed, and I encourage them to take breaks. A healthy work-life balance is essential,” he emphasizes. This approach has led to a highly motivated team. “Inclusion is our strength. Different perspectives create advantages in the field,” Bram adds.
When asked his advice for young professionals, he emphasizes driving action above all else. “Get stuff done. Make it happen. It requires work, effort, and creativity. Ambition without action is just fantasy,” he states, echoing the sign on his wall. This motto continues to be the driving force behind his success and that of his team.
Oracle’s difference, according to Bram, lies in its mission-driven culture. “Veterans like myself join Oracle because we align with the mission of global security. Oracle’s cloud portfolio is unmatched, and we’re making a real difference,” he shares.
Leading at the cutting edge of defense technology offers some of the most exciting potential for career development in the industry today. Bram’s passion for digital transformation and his unique background mean that he’s right at home at Oracle. And now, he’s empowered to change the game, ensuring that organizations are equipped with the best technology to face modern challenges.
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