Fred Beekmans new Institute Manager Strategy at Wageningen Food & Biobased Research

As part of Wageningen University & Research, WFBR can connect its applied expertise with the broad scientific landscape of WUR. This combination enables the institute to offer companies, governments and societal partners even more integrated and future-oriented solutions. Fred will be responsible for developing and implementing the business strategy, stimulating collaboration with strategic partners, and translating external needs into impactful research and innovation. Together with the Institute Managing Research, he will form the two-person management team that leads the institute. 

Fred brings a strong combination of scientific expertise and industry leadership to this role. After completing his PhD in Materials Science at Delft University of Technology, he began his career at one of the predecessor institutes of what is now WFBR. He went on to hold leadership and innovation roles at NIZO Food Research, Vion Ingredients and Darling Ingredients, building extensive experience in steering research portfolios, product development and global quality management. After thirteen years in industry, he returned to Wageningen University & Research as programme lead for strategic research in circular and biobased food systems and sustainable nutrition.

Gerda Feunekes, General Director of Agrotechnology and Food Sciences, comments on the appointment: “With Fred joining WFBR, we are welcoming an experienced and collaborative leader. His broad background in both science and industry aligns perfectly with our ambition to further strengthen WFBR as the leading partner for healthy food and biobased innovation.”