Bart Merkus

Bart Merkus currently serves as the Product Development Manager at Marginpar, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's innovative summer flower assortment. Leveraging his extensive background in plant sciences, molecular biology, and phytopathology, Bart spearheads the integration of cutting-edge scientific research into practical breeding and cultivation strategies. His expertise in virology, biotechnology, and plant pathology enables him to oversee the development of resilient, high-quality flower varieties that meet both market demands and sustainability goals.

A key aspect of Bart’s role involves managing trial sites across diverse regions, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. These sites are essential for testing and refining new flower varieties under different environmental conditions, ensuring that Marginpar’s offerings are both robust and unique. By translating the company's strategic vision into actionable annual plans for these farms, Bart ensures that each project aligns with the broader innovation pipeline and quality standards. His strong project management and quality management skills facilitate seamless collaboration among multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and scientific rigor.

Moreover, Bart actively supports his teams in their professional development, promoting a scientific approach to plant breeding and cultivation. His presentation skills and collaborative mindset enable effective communication of complex scientific concepts to stakeholders at all levels. Through his leadership, Marginpar continues to push the boundaries of ornamental horticulture, delivering novel, sustainable flower varieties that captivate markets worldwide while adhering to the highest standards of research and development.