Prof. Dr. Ir. H.W.G.M. (Eric) van Heck, Professor of Information and Market Management at the Department of Technology and Operations Management, Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University Rotterdam, brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the fields of business and sustainability. With a career spanning decades, his journey to becoming a renowned professor is truly inspiring.
Growing up in a small village in the south of the Netherlands, Eric’s path into academia was not preordained. During high school, he realized the potential to attend university, a path unfamiliar to his family.
His academic journey began at Wageningen Agricultural University, where he pursued studies in land and water use—an area quintessentially Dutch. However, during his undergraduate years, he discovered his passion for scientific research, particularly during his thesis project at Cornell University in the United States.
Upon returning to the Netherlands, Professor Eric pursued a multifaceted approach to his master’s studies, studying optimization, information management, and agricultural economics. His insatiable curiosity led him to explore the impact of solar cycles on agricultural production—a research endeavor that foreshadowed his future focus on sustainability.
After working briefly in the corporate world, Eric felt compelled to pursue research and academia. This pivotal decision led him to Wageningen University, where he commenced his journey as an assistant professor while pursuing a Ph.D. in electronic data exchange systems.
His expertise in electronic data interchange piqued the interest of the Dutch floral industry, propelling him into a leadership role in crafting EDI messages—a project deeply intertwined with his doctoral research. Presently, he concentrates on leveraging digital technology to revolutionize operational processes in the flower business sector.
Following the completion of his Ph.D., Professor Eric’s academic journey took him to prestigious institutions such as New York University and Erasmus University, where he has held the position of full professor since 2006. His research now focuses on digital business and circular models, primarily emphasizing advancing sustainability through technology.
In recent years, Eric’s dedication to sustainability has transcended academia. His collaboration with universities in Indonesia, including SBM ITB, underscores his commitment to nurturing a new generation of leaders committed to driving positive change.
As a guest lecturer at SBM ITB from January to February 2024, Eric engaged with students across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs, imparting knowledge on operations management and strategic decision-making. His participation as a keynote speaker at the Strategic Decision-Making Symposium held by SBM ITB on February 23, 2024, further attested to his expertise in this domain.
Eric shares insights on how the circular and digital economy can offer solutions for our future, emphasizing their potential to address pressing environmental and economic challenges. He underscores the concept of sustainability, viewing it as the harmony of the triangle—people, planet, and profit. Eric believes the business world must strive to maintain equilibrium within this triangle, with digital transformation as the primary driving force. Digital technology can promote sustainable practices while spurring economic growth by focusing on efficiency and responsible energy usage.
Eric is also the author of “Technology Meets Flowers: Unlocking the Circular and Digital Economy,” drawing from his experience in the floral technology industry. This book illustrates how digital transformation and efforts to promote sustainability are applied in everyday life, both in business and personal contexts. Its publication further solidifies Eric’s expertise in integrating technology with sustainable principles.
Looking ahead, Eric envisions a future where universities play a pivotal role in shaping a new generation of leaders—individuals prioritizing people and the planet over profits. His optimism stems from the bright minds he encounters in the classroom, reinforcing his belief in the transformative power of education.
At the nexus of business, technology, and sustainability, Eric remains steadfast in his commitment to driving meaningful change. His story inspires academics and changemakers alike, serving as a reminder that the journey toward a sustainable future begins with education and empowerment.
