Thank you Marije Hulshof for joining us for this inspiring conversation. We hope this dialogue sparks new ideas and fuels others on their own Leaders of Progress Journey.
LEADERS OF PROGRESS SPOTLIGHT #3
MARIJE HULSHOF
CEO Haskoning
She drives sustainability by empowering colleagues
and partners toward collective, lasting impact.
"A Leader of Progress drives change, but never alone."
In your own words, what does it mean to be a Leader of Progress?
“Being recognized as a Leader of Progress is a big honor, but it truly reflects the whole team at Haskoning. Every day, we work side by side with clients and partners to push the boundaries of sustainability, whether in energy transition, flood protection, or sustainable mobility. All of this is guided by our shared purpose: Enhancing Society Together. My role is simply to help keep that mission on course. The real credit belongs to our colleagues.”
Embedding Purpose Into Strategy
What is the most important change Haskoning has made to truly embed sustainability into its overall strategy?
“In 2021, we redefined what Enhancing Society Together really means, focusing on five key areas: climate change; biodiversity & natural systems; resources & circularity; social value & equality; safety & well-being. All of them are rooted in the SDGs.
To embed these themes at the heart of our business, we developed the Purpose Matrix, a framework that guides every proposal, project, product, and service toward positive societal impact. It’s not just a tool, but a mindset shift that makes sustainability part of every decision.
A concrete example is our new office in Delft: a 1912 monument transformed from an energy disaster into a modern, Paris Proof workplace for 1,000 employees. It’s a living example of how purpose and sustainability go hand in hand.”
Driving Progress Through Innovation & Education
Can you name one specific project where you made real progress possible?
“One of the projects I’m most proud of is the Haskoning Innovation & Education Fund. Each year, 12.5% of our net profit is gifted towards independent global research, innovation and education. At a time when universities face severe budget pressures, we see it as our responsibility to strengthen knowledge and innovation, ensuring it continues to thrive for future generations. It directly contributes to SDGs 13 (Climate Action), 6 (Clean Water), and 14 (Life Below Water).
The greatest challenge is ensuring we maintain a healthy and sustainable profit, because that enables us to make this annual contribution. But what makes it deeply rewarding is the overwhelming enthusiasm from our staff and shareholders, it shows us we’re heading in the right direction.”
Looking 25 years ahead...
“... I hope that our most lasting impact will be safeguarding our unique governance: steward-owned, partly employee-owned, and deeply committed to long-term sustainability. It makes Haskoning the place to be for talented, purpose-driven people. As CEO, it’s my privilege to protect and strengthen that identity.
As thought leaders in climate resilience and water management, I believe we can continue to drive real change, though I hope our expertise will be less needed in 25 years. On a personal note, I am especially passionate about restoring biodiversity. The silence of lost bird species in my surroundings reminds me why this work matters.”
My personal advice to companies struggling to prioritize CSR ...
“Start with credibility. Commit genuinely, lead by example, and show that you’re investing in your company’s long-term viability. Then, unlock the energy of your people. At Haskoning, our employees actively seek meaningful, impactful work, and we would be foolish not to embrace that. It motivates our staff and inspires others, too.”
ABOUT THE
LEADERS OF PROGRESS
Interview Series
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Global Compact. To honor this milestone, we are launching an interview series spotlighting the change makers behind our participating companies in the Netherlands: the Leaders of Progress. By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire bold leadership and spark meaningful change.
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