Frank Bakema

Frank Bakema serves as the Corporate Director of Education, Research, and Innovation at Wageningen University & Research, a leading institution renowned for its focus on life sciences, sustainability, and food security. In this strategic leadership role, Frank oversees a dynamic department comprising approximately 90 to 100 professionals dedicated to advancing cutting-edge research and innovative educational programs. His expertise in innovation management and sustainability is instrumental in shaping the university’s forward-looking strategies, ensuring that Wageningen remains at the forefront of scientific discovery and societal impact.

Under Frank’s guidance, the department actively develops and implements profile and performance agreements that align with Wageningen’s overarching mission to contribute to a sustainable future. His leadership emphasizes fostering a culture of excellence in research and education, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and integrating sustainability principles into all initiatives. Frank’s role also involves representing Wageningen UR in external forums, where he advocates for the university’s strategic priorities and builds partnerships with industry, government, and academia to enhance knowledge exchange and innovation ecosystems.

With a strong background in organization science and a proven track record in coaching and strategy development, Frank is adept at translating complex scientific insights into actionable strategies that drive institutional growth. His advisory role in internal and external bodies ensures that Wageningen’s research and education strategies remain aligned with global challenges and societal needs. Overall, Frank Bakema’s leadership exemplifies a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation, positioning Wageningen University & Research as a global leader in life sciences and sustainable development.