Richard is a chartered accountant and has gained broad knowledge and experience in horticulture at companies such as Flamingo Flowers and Floral Trade Group. He enjoys working within the dynamic world of horticulture. "Roll up your sleeves and get to work is a motto that suits me well," says Richard. As CFO at Van der Knaap, he will be responsible for the Finance, IT and Legal Affairs departments. Attracting Richard fits within the policy of rejuvenation of the board, management and employees of the organisation.
John: "Richard possesses the quality to deal with various stakeholders: shareholders, financiers, external parties. He has a complete picture of what is involved in a business. Moreover, he is a pleasant guy to work with!"
Richard explains that he chose Van der Knaap Group because of the innovative nature of the company. Richard: "I see that the organisation has a vision in which sustainability plays an important role. For example, by offering excellent solutions for the growers of the future with circular substrates and fertilisers."
John will remain with the company as an advisor and will focus on specific strategic projects within the company. John: "In the coming period I will still spend a lot of time with Richard to get him up to speed, after which he will focus more on operational matters. That will give me room to focus more on the growth ambitions of the organisation. Those are mainly on the side of coco substrate production and our sustainable growing systems."
Both parties look forward to the future positively and with confidence.
