Education
MSc Crop Science at Wageningen University. Specialized in the production and post-harvest management of horticulture crops.
Experience
René has more than 10 years of experience in fruit and vegetable production, sourcing and post-harvest management systems. For the last 8 years, René has worked in Thailand and Vietnam obtaining extensive expertise in the development and implementation of strategies for fruit and vegetable production, sourcing and post-harvest systems, and policy development in South East Asia. Working directly in the field has provided René with first-hand experience and knowledge regarding how to establish and manage these systems.
My approach is down-to-earth, solution- aimed and cooperative. |
Fresh Studio®
René leads the crop sourcing teams across Vietnam. These are responsible for developing, implementing and managing production, sourcing and post-harvest management systems within the agricultural (fruit and vegetable) sector of South East Asia. Clients include supermarket chains, international trade, food processing, seed and agricultural input companies and ministries. René is also responsible for the R&D Farm of Fresh Studio® at which new production methods and varieties are tested and introduced to Vietnamese farmers.
Examples of work include:
- Establishment of a direct vegetable distribution center for a leading international wholesaler in Vietnam
- Variety trials for a world-leading vegetable seed company
- Plant variety registration for multiple clients
- Various Public - Private Partnership projects and Public projects
What makes René tick:
He thrives when turning theory into practice. Challenges on a farm or elsewhere in the food supply chain can be solved in theory. In real life however, things often work differently. Combining theory from related areas into practical, profitable, and sustainable solutions gives him a kick.