Ramses "Rams" Meijer is a highly accomplished executive with extensive experience in managing large-scale, multi-million-dollar businesses across the fintech and travel industries. His career is marked by a deep proficiency in overseeing all aspects of online technology, from product management to marketing, sales, analytics, business development, and operations. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead large, geographically dispersed teams, driving rapid optimizations, significant growth, and the successful implementation of long-term strategies. His leadership style is characterized by a commitment to innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence, which has fueled the success of every venture he has undertaken.
Harnessing his vast experience in the fintech and travel sectors, Meijer founded WerkMagic, a North Carolina-based full-service property management, marketing, and consulting company. As the owner and CEO of WerkMagic, he has brought his exceptional expertise in sales and marketing strategy, people management, company culture, and online marketplace operations to bear on the company's growth trajectory. Under his leadership, WerkMagic provides a comprehensive suite of services to short-term rental owners, ensuring their success in a competitive market. His vision for WerkMagic is grounded in his ability to anticipate market trends and deliver tailored solutions that drive profitability and long-term sustainability for his clients.
During his nearly five-year tenure at LendingTree, Ramses rapidly rose through the ranks, earning recognition for his outstanding contributions to the company's success. Starting as General Manager, responsible for credit cards, student loans, and auto loans, his impact was quickly felt, leading to his promotion to Vice President and later to Senior Vice President of General Management Operations. In this role, he oversaw LendingTree's diverse portfolio of lending marketplace businesses, which included ten business lines and six brands. His strategic leadership was instrumental in generating $700 million in annual revenue, with full ownership of the P&L, business strategy, operations, and execution.
Meijer played a crucial role in aligning acquired brands with the LendingTree core, overseeing the successful exit of Ovation.com, and driving the long-term strategy for business loans. His efforts in improving conversion rates in the credit card vertical and negotiating significant business development partnerships with industry leaders like Acxiom, CNN, Google, MSN, Equifax, Experian, TransUnion, and Bulldog Media further underscored his value to the organization. His focus on delivering a positive financial impact to the LendingTree P&L through quarter-over-quarter acquisition growth in business loans, personal loans, and debt relief solidified his reputation as a strategic visionary within the company.
Prior to his success at LendingTree, Ramses Meijer spent six years at Expedia Group, where he held several critical roles, culminating in his appointment as General Manager of North American brands, including Orbitz, Travelocity, and CheapTickets. His innovative approach to brand marketing was evident in the success of campaigns such as "Just Like That," "Travel with Pride," and "National Spoil Your Dog Day with Orbitz." His leadership and creative vision were rewarded with three promotions during his tenure, reflecting the significant impact he had on the company's growth and market presence. His ability to drive forward-thinking campaigns and lead teams to success was a hallmark of his time at Expedia Group.
Ramses's professional journey began in the hospitality industry, where he spent 14 years excelling in hotel sales and marketing. His career included senior roles at prestigious hotels such as the InterContinental DC & Chicago, Omni Hotels Dallas, Bel Air Hotel The Hague, and The Langham Hotel Chicago. In these roles, he honed his skills in sales strategy, marketing, and leadership, laying the foundation for his future successes in the fintech and travel industries. His ability to navigate the complexities of hotel sales and marketing, combined with his leadership capabilities, set the stage for his transition into broader industry roles.
Born in Doetinchem, The Netherlands, Meijer pursued his education at NHL Stenden Hotel Management School before moving to the United States in 1999 to complete his bachelor's degree in hospitality at the Ritz-Carlton Company. His international background and fluency in English, Dutch, and German have provided him with a global perspective that has informed his approach to business and leadership. He has lived in several cities across the Netherlands and the United States, including Doetinchem, Leeuwarden, Atlanta, Washington, DC, Chicago, Dallas, and Charlotte.
Ramses is married to April and is a dedicated father to their daughter, Maxime. He is actively involved in her education and extracurricular activities, serving as a coach for her YMCA volleyball and soccer teams. The family shares a passion for travel and adventure, frequently exploring the Carolina Mountains and enjoying annual ski trips to destinations like Utah and Colorado. Their love for the outdoors and commitment to experiencing new cultures and environments is a central part of their family life.
Sports have always been an integral part of Meijer's life. Growing up in the Netherlands, soccer was a natural passion, one that he shared with his older brother Rogier, who is now a professional football coach in the Eredivisie. He played soccer until the age of 33 before transitioning to marathon running and triathlons. His athletic achievements include completing the Chicago and Las Vegas marathons, the Louisville Ironman, and several half-ironman events. In recent years, he has rekindled his love for tennis and now competes in local leagues, including the USTA and Queen City League in Charlotte.
Ramses Meijer is deeply committed to his community and enjoys engaging in various volunteer activities. He volunteers as a coach at the YMCA, supports local food pantries and homeless shelters, and contributes to several charities annually. In addition to his community involvement, he is an avid DIY enthusiast, taking on numerous home improvement projects. His recent accomplishments include building a composite deck, installing a yard fence, constructing an outdoor swing set, and remodeling rooms within his home. His dedication to his family, community, and personal interests is a testament to his well-rounded character and his commitment to making a positive impact in all aspects of his life.