Wittenborg CEO Attends Strategic Board Meeting in Deventer
Exploring Transitions and the Role of Regions
Wittenborg CEO Maggie Feng recently attended the Regio Stedendriehoek's second Strategic Board meeting of the year at Royal Auping in Deventer.
One of the Strategic Board's previous meetings highlighted several key initiatives and ongoing projects. The region is set to receive €20 million from the government to implement the 'Stronger in 3D' Regional Deal, with an agreement among partners being finalised for signing in September and activities commencing in November.
Given global instability, the region's expertise in security is crucial, leading to exploratory talks with stakeholders and potentially a pilot project with the Ministry of Defence. A significant trip to The Hague is also planned for June, aiming to strengthen connections and discuss key topics with ministries and parliament, including security, SME transitions, and energy transitions. Furthermore, the board is focusing on improving food security, quality, safety and nature. These efforts illustrate the board's active role in regional development and strategic planning.
Focusing on Regional Transition Strategies
During the meeting on 3 June, Apeldoorn mayor Ton Heerts kickstarted the event, praising the dynamic group and the strong relationships forming among board members. Host and board member Jan-Joost Bosman, from Auping, shared the inspiring story of how the Auping family business transitioned to fully circular mattress production, emphasising the innovation and ambition behind their mission for a well-rested world.
Jan Rotmans, the keynote speaker and international authority on transitions and sustainability, presented his vision of the significant changes ahead. He emphasised various transitions, including those in the agriculture sector, among other topics, and underscored the crucial role regions play in driving these changes.
Timo Kos of Saxion Hogeschool further spoke about the implementation of the Regional Deal 'Stronger in 3D'. Additionally, Jan Terlouw spoke about the region's profiling, underscoring the importance of a cohesive regional narrative.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Ron König, the mayor of Deventer, summarising the discussions and highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to navigate the region's future transitions effectively.
WUP 12/06/2024
by Erene Roux
