Koen Janssen Appointed President of TU Eindhoven Executive Board
Eindhoven, Thursday, 9 January 2025.
Koen Janssen will lead TU Eindhoven starting March 1, 2025, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and unifying leadership to strengthen the university’s strategic goals.
Leadership Transition and Background
Koen Janssen, who currently serves as managing director at Brightlands Materials Center, will officially assume his role as President of the TU Eindhoven Executive Board on March 27, 2025, following a brief transition period beginning March 1 [1][3]. The Belgian native, born in 1964, brings extensive experience to the position, including a PhD in polymer chemistry from KU Leuven and an impressive 30-year career at DSM [1]. His most recent positions included Global Vice President at DSM Dyneema and Vice President for Innovation, RT&D and Sustainability at DSM Biomedical in the United States [1].
Strategic Vision and Leadership Approach
As the incoming president, Janssen emphasizes the importance of building lasting relationships within the university community [7]. ‘I’m not here for the title or prestige; it’s about the substance and what I can contribute to the organization,’ he states [3]. His appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the TU/e Supervisory Board, with President Peter Wennink expressing confidence in Janssen’s abilities as a skilled leader with strategic insight [1]. The new president will focus on key challenges including sustainability initiatives and addressing budget constraints while supporting the growing needs of the Brainport region [3][7].
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Janssen’s background reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, demonstrated through his active involvement in various initiatives [1]. He currently participates in several significant projects, including Syschemiq, a European project for the circular plastics economy, and the R&D Hub for Plastic Waste Processing, an initiative from the World Economic Forum [1]. This experience aligns well with TU/e’s strategic objectives and its role in advancing technological innovation in the region [3].
Personal Approach and Work-Life Balance
In a demonstration of his commitment to both professional excellence and personal values, Janssen will commute from Bilzen, Belgium, working four days a week in Eindhoven [7]. He has designated Wednesdays as ‘grandpa day’ to spend time with his three grandchildren, showing his dedication to maintaining work-life balance [5]. His leadership style emphasizes inclusivity and equality, stating that ‘Everyone contributes something to the university in their way. Whether you clean the toilets or are a professor, everyone is equal’ [7].