Behind every successful event at Leerhotel Het Klooster is a committed team. Banqueting Manager Nina van der Kleij is a familiar face in that team. With years of experience in hospitality and an eye for detail, she ensures that business meetings not only run professionally, but also feel personal. 

A broad background in human contact 

Nina started her career in the airport at KLM, where she worked on the ground and had daily contact with passengers. She then ran her own management and artist agency for many years and worked extensively in the catering and events world. Her experience is broad, but always revolves around guest contact. "The common thread has always been working with people, in different settings and sectors. When my daughter studied at the Hotelschool Amersfoort and gained her practical experience at Leerhotel Het Klooster, I decided to apply. I wanted to start transferring my knowledge and contribute to hospitality and education in my own hometown." She has now been working at the Leerhotel for seven years, where she works daily to provide every guest with a warm welcome and a perfectly organized experience. 

When everything is right, the experience is right 

For Nina, a successful day begins before the event has even begun properly. "I always like the moment just before a meeting starts the most. People come in. They look around, are curious and feel that something beautiful is about to happen. That gives energy." For her, during the event it's all about the moment when everything comes together. "When the preparation is right, the contact person feels seen and fully supported and the team fulfills its role smoothly and with attention, I know: we have done well." During that phase, she walks around, checks in with contacts and keeps in touch with students. "Being visible is essential. Hospitality doesn't happen behind the scenes, it happens on the floor." 

Students make the difference 

Whether serving a one-pan meal or supervising a coffee event, students play a central role. "They are often the face of the event. A brief chat over coffee or a well-timed explanation with the food. That kind of moment stays with guests." It is precisely by being visible that personal contact is created, no matter how big the event. Nina emphasizes, "Whether you are working with three or three hundred guests, people need to feel that they are welcome and that there is someone to fall back on." 

She teaches students that hospitality does not take place behind the scenes. "Even if no one asks for anything, you have to be there. It could just be that someone still wants to order something or has a question. Visibility radiates attention and care. That's exactly what makes a meeting personal." Nina sees it as her job to teach students that visibility and timing make all the difference. "Guests regularly give back that they are positively surprised and experience the students as genuinely involved and professional. Their commitment, attention and inquisitive attitude are visibly appreciated and contribute to a positive overall experience." 

Details matter 

The power of a meeting is often in the little things. "What guests often notice immediately is the lighting," says Nina. "Since we switched to warmer, dimmable lights, I regularly hear that it makes the atmosphere feel more pleasant and calm. Especially when people are working with laptops or tablets, soft light is much nicer than bright white light." But it doesn't stop at light alone. The decoration of the room also does a lot for the experience. Curtains, quiet colors and natural materials create a comfortable atmosphere. "It makes a room feel not purely functional, but also personal and inviting," Nina explains. "And that very thing makes guests really feel at ease and experience the day as enjoyable." 

Communication as a common thread 

What is the key to a smoothly running event? "Communication. From the first moment of contact to the briefings and guidance on the day itself. When everyone knows what is expected, everything falls into place." According to Nina, communication is not just talking, but also watching, being present and tuning in. "And that doesn't start only on the day itself, but much earlier." 

Experience it for yourself 

Want to host a meeting where personal attention, professional execution and learning come together? Nina van der Kleij and her team work with our students to provide a hospitality experience that is right in every detail. Feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities.