Harry Mens - Expert Profile and Services Overview
TV Host / Entrepreneur / Investor
Lisse, Netherlands
Introduction
Harry Mens is one of the Netherlands’ most enduring business voices—a real estate entrepreneur, media innovator, and founder of the iconic RTL7 program Business Class. For more than two decades, he has given leading entrepreneurs, investors, politicians, and cultural icons a platform, making him a central figure in the Dutch business ecosystem. Mens built his reputation on access, insight, and an exceptional ability to connect ambition with opportunity. For over 25 years, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup of influential guests, including: - Prominent CEOs and founders from the Dutch business world Leading politicians from VVD, CDA, and emerging parties - Top investors and financial experts - Cultural icons and global talents, including when Mens famously brought Luciano Pavarotti to the Netherlands - Public thought leaders such as Pim Fortuyn, with whom Mens maintained a personal friendship
Early life and education
Born in 1947 in Lisse, Mens grew up in the flower bulb heartland of the Netherlands. After the early loss of his father, he stepped into adulthood quickly, taking responsibility for his family and entering the world of trading as a teenager. Those years taught him resilience, negotiation, and street-smart business instinct. Without formal higher education, he developed his skills through real-world experience—first in the bulb trade, later in local politics, and ultimately in high-value real estate. This practical upbringing shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and laid the groundwork for his career as a business leader.
Career trajectory
From Politics to Real Estate Leadership Mens entered public service at age 23, one of the youngest local politicians in his region. Soon after, he transitioned into vastgoed, founding Mens Makelaars, a brokerage that grew into a respected name in premium residential and commercial real estate. His firm became known for high-value transactions, a strong network of investors, and an ability to navigate the upper tiers of the property market. Creator of Business Class – A Platform for Leaders In 1998, Mens launched Business Class, a program that would transform his career and the visibility of entrepreneurship in the Netherlands. For over 25 years, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup of influential guests, including: Prominent CEOs and founders from the Dutch business world Leading politicians from VVD, CDA, and emerging parties Top investors and financial experts Cultural icons and global talents, including when Mens famously brought Luciano Pavarotti to the Netherlands Public thought leaders such as Pim Fortuyn, with whom Mens maintained a personal friendship Through these interviews, Business Class became a trusted stage for business leaders to share insights, launch ideas, and grow brand visibility long before business media became mainstream. Entrepreneurial Expansion Mens later added new projects to his portfolio, including the establishment of Crematorium Duin & Bollenstreek, a modern facility praised for its architecture and community service. His ventures consistently combine commerce, local impact, and long-term strategic thinking.
Legacy and future
A Business Media Icon
With thousands of interviews and millions of viewers, Mens created a unique Dutch tradition: entrepreneurial conversation on Sunday mornings. Business Class is one of the longest-running business shows in the country, earning Mens a reputation as a trusted voice for entrepreneurs and executives.
A Connector of People and Opportunities
Mens’ real impact lies in his ability to open doors. For decades, he connected startups with investors, SMEs with customers, and leaders with new audiences. Many companies saw their first national exposure on his show—making him an early champion of business storytelling.
A Role Model of Self-Made Success
From bulb trader to real estate authority to national media personality, Mens built his career on drive, consistency, and the courage to reinvent himself. His life illustrates that entrepreneurial success comes from taking initiative and staying visible.