Ed Voerman dies aged 84

Jan 28 | 2025

Robert Jan Voerman and the Management Board Voerman Group of Companies in the Netherlands have announced the recent death of Mr Ed Voerman, Robert's father and the company's founder.

Ed VoermanHe was 84 yeas old and died peacefully at home, on 17 January, 2025, surrounded by his family, fulfilling his longstanding wish for tranquillity in his final days.

Ed's career began at Allied Varekamp, where he served as managing director before founding Voerman International in 1986 in Amsterdam. Later that year, after initiating a partnership with André van Herk, the new company quickly advanced, incorporating innovative approaches to corporate relocations and strategic acquisitions, including Batenburg & Folmer and Transpack.

His visionary leadership facilitated the company's expansion beyond Dutch borders, notably with the establishment of facilities in Moscow, Prague, and other Eastern European locations starting in 1992. Ed also pioneered the concept of destination services in Europe through Eurohome Relocation Services and founded UTS International, now known as Harmony Relocation Network.

He devoted much of his time to his passion for 'Servant Leadership', a philosophy he actively introduced within his own company for many years. He founded an academy where hundreds of experienced managers embraced Robert Greenleaf’s philosophy of The Servant as Leader.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Ed remained active in various social activities, enjoyed rowing well into his later years, and cherished spending time with his grandchildren. He leaves behind his wife, Annelies, their four children, and seven grandchildren.

Robert Jan Voerman commented: “As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate his remarkable contributions and the enduring principles of servant leadership he instilled, which continue to guide us today. Ed was immensely proud of the company’s evolution, our new global headquarters that bear his name, and the continued involvement of the next generation in our business. His spirit and principles will forever be the cornerstone of our company’s ethos.”

Photo: Ed Voerman.