At the HSD Lunch and Talk two weeks ago, Birdwatcher Group presented its unique approach to intelligence and security. Established at HSD Campus just four months ago, Birdwatcher Group was founded in 2022 by intelligence veterans Tim Bosch and Bob Dirkse, who bring decades of experience from the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD). The idea for the group began over discussions in Ukraine prior to the 2022 invasion, inspiring Tim and Bob to combine their expertise and networks to create Birdwatcher Group.
Birdwatcher Group operates on three core pillars: security sector reform, investigations, and intelligence technology solutions. Their comprehensive approach makes them a one-stop shop, and their combined backgrounds in management and operations allow them to offer something truly distinctive.
The group’s strength lies in the founders’ unique intelligence and security backgrounds, which provide them with strong, well-established connections across the global intelligence community. With a core team of six in The Hague and a branch in Armenia, Birdwatcher Group employs a network-based structure, partnering with global experts while maintaining an agile team. They are particularly proud of this global network. Birdwatcher Group is thriving through its network, while also growing and benefiting from the intelligence and security ecosystem. Tim and Bob also value their connections with academia, which enable them to strengthen ties and learn from the next generation of experts. Birdwatcher Group endeavours to be a platform for these entities, enhancing the network within The Hague and the Netherlands.
After joining HSD Campus, Tim reflected, “How could we have missed this concept? Because we completely belong here, and all the companies here are relevant to us.” Recognising the campus as a hub aligned with their mission, he added, “It is never too late to realise that [HSD Campus] is the place we belong.” Already partnered with Akasec, a fellow campus member, Birdwatcher Group is eager to collaborate further within the HSD community, strengthening its role in the intelligence and security metwork in The Hague.