Ede, Gelderland, Netherlands
An experienced and results-driven technology leader with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and impactful change. Possesses a solid technical foundation in the process industry and chemistry, complemented by expertise in R&D, innovation management, and strategic leadership. Passionate about scaling sustainable solutions and fostering cross-functional collaboration to achieve lasting environmental and societal impact. Thrives in leading high-performing teams, integrating diverse skills to deliver cutting-edge technologies and innovations to achieve lasting environmental and societal impact. Added value: Offers a unique blend of 25 years of industry experience and applied research expertise in sustainability, innovation, chemical engineering, people management, and R&D, with a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions. Key words: realisation, research, impact, integration, motivation, collaboration, connection, team-oriented, large network, sustainability, innovation, systems-thinker.
As a Program Manager, I am responsible for the portfolio of the System Solutions & Environment division, focusing on a sustainable energy system and a circular economy. The knowledge, scenarios, tools and models developed within the program enable policymakers and strategists to develop effective policies and future‑proof strategies.
Overall accountability for a research department of 45 staff members, overseeing finances, knowledge development and project delivery in the area of Circular Economy (plastics, building & infrastructure) and sustainability assessment (LCA, MKI) and system modeling. Key Contributions: 1) Led the growth of sustainability expertise from 10 of 45 staff members. 2) Created the CSI department’s mission and key objectives, along with a comprehensive, state-of-the-art research strategy within a new Unit Division.
Overall accountability for a research department of 80 staff members, overseeing finances,knowledge development and project delivery in the area of Circular Economy and Sustainability as well as as Air Quality modelling (particulate matter, green house gases, nitrogen) using satellite earth observation. Key focus area on Air Quality and green house gases Key contributions: 1) Ad interim role as Director of Operations for Unit CEE. 2) Led split of department in two new research groups.
Leading knowledge development and commercialisation in the area of circular plastics, recycling and closing resource loops. Key contributions: 1) Develop and setup new collaborations with international consortia, EU projects and B2B to enhance the technologies for efficient recycling of plastic waste streams. 2) Lecture and organiser side event at international conference and exhibitions (European Industry & Energy Summit, 2020) 3) Co-author of key review paper with more than 1000 citations: Beyond Mechanical Recycling: Giving New Life to Plastic Waste, Vollmer et al., Angewandte Chemie, Vol 59, Issue 36, p15402-15423
Utilise efficient leadership skills to coach and train a team of 18 staff members to enhance skill levels regarding development of competences in process engineering, HSE, and R&D technical function. Consistently innovate new end-to-end GTL technologies, play a key role in building and maintaining external relationships, and manage an IP patent asset portfolio. Key Contribution: 1) Recognized by top management for leading a $50M technology maturation program, involving 50+ projects and 90+ staff members worldwide, for both current and new assets.
Held concurrent responsibility for maturing a novel technology over program lifecycle. Increased business profitability in Shell’s current and future GTL Plants by streamlining of improved catalysts and reactor systems. Mitigated capital and enhanced productivity through idea generation for adoption of novel technology to integrate into a demo project. Key Contribution: 1) Proved functional for administering a budget of $5-10M as well as a project team of approximately 10 researchers and research associates, while operating pilot plant activities across Amsterdam, Germany and Malaysia.
Responsible for global technical team spread across Netherlands, USA, and China, to facilitate new global LNG applications covering key countries including UK, China, Netherlands, USA and Norway. Served as a team leader for a global LNG market development in small-scale applications within the transport and industry. Developed design standards and engaged in active liaison with OEMs and partners by acting as a custodian for technical design. Key Contributions: 1) Implemented a CO2 optimisation program by preparing and sponsoring LNG R&D budget. CO2 focal point with objective to ensure projects and current assets maintain or come up to Top Quartile industry standards. 2) Cross-functionally oversaw the process of 6 direct reports (Netherlands, USA, China and Norway) as well as a multi-disciplinary project staff team of another 6 members.