Jan Gooijer

As Innovation Manager, I developed and now maintain an Innovation and Research Agenda that addresses the challenges for a modern utility. In eight different themes, ranging from asset management to customer interaction, projects and pilots help shape the future. An important topic is digitalization. Digitalization brings many opportunities in all parts of a utility, but it needs a thorough translation as few people understand it. 

I built, and now lead, a team of data scientists. With this team we generate value from data and provide evidence from use cases that underpin the strategic business case of algorithm driven operations. 

An important part of my role is to develop and maintain a diversity of networks. These networks operate between departments within a utility; on a national scale between utilities and other sectors; and finally on an international scale.

My working profile can be defined as a powerful combination of strategic thinking with operational pragmatism and focus. I am able to see action within a strategic context and shape strategy while being mindful of operational possibilities and constraints. I balance a task focus with a thorough understanding that success depends heavily on creating an ecosystem in which colleagues are inspired and motivated to explore, develop and take ownership of their projects and wider contribution.