Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 45 years of experience in food systems, agriculture, and rural development, the expert has dedicated 22 years to the food processing sector, holding senior roles at multinational companies. With extensive expertise in food safety standards, HACCP, ISO certifications, and productivity improvement, the expert has significantly contributed to enhanced food safety and quality systems. Career highlights include leading capacity building and technical assistance projects for organizations such as WHO, UNIDO, FAO, and the EU. Responsibilities have included conducting audits, training, and implementing management control systems, resulting in improved productivity and compliance.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as WHO, UNIDO, FAO, IFC, the World Bank, and the EU. The expert's involvement has encompassed project implementation, technical assistance, evaluations, and capacity building in food safety, agriculture, and quality infrastructure. These projects have been regional and national in scope, covering geographic locations such as Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. The expert has played a key role in enhancing food safety standards and improving food processing and quality systems across these regions.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in food processing, agriculture, and rural development, the expert has held roles such as Production Manager, Food Safety Specialist, and Consultant. The focus has been on food safety standards, quality assurance, and productivity improvement. The expert's interdisciplinary expertise includes institutional development and capacity building, with an emphasis on enhancing food safety systems and quality infrastructure. Geographic experience spans Europe, Asia, and the Americas, addressing complex challenges in both private and public sectors. Long-term assignments in Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan have further enhanced the expert's regional expertise, particularly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Languages and education

The expert is a native Dutch speaker and fluent in English, with excellent reading, speaking, and writing skills. Basic proficiency in French and German complements the expert's language competencies, which have been utilized in various international contexts, including working in multilingual teams and conducting global training and workshops. These skills have supported effective communication and collaboration, enhancing the ability to manage and execute international projects successfully. The expert holds a B.Sc in Food Technology from the Professional University for Food Technology in Bolsward, the Netherlands, with a focus on dairy, fruits, and vegetable technology. Additional qualifications include a Licentiate in Cooling & Freezing Technology from the University of Surinam and a B.Sc in Financial Management from the Institute Career & Development in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. These academic credentials underpin the expert's extensive expertise in food systems and management.