Bert-Jan Ottens

Bert-Jan Ottens is an experienced entrepreneur and consultant in the field of sustainable agriculture and natural ingredients. He is the founder and senior adviser of ProFound - Advisers In Development, a consulting company focused on trade and development.13

Professional Background

Bert-Jan has over 25 years of experience working with various international organizations and private sector actors. His expertise includes:

• Developing sustainable and traceable supply chains
• Designing biodiversity and livelihood-related BioTrade development programs
• Creating micro/rural financing strategies

He has worked with organizations such as RVO/CBI, UNCTAD BioTrade, SECO, SIPPO, UNDP, World Bank, FAO, and IFAD.1

Green Rhino and Healthy Green Choice

In addition to his role at ProFound, Bert-Jan Ottens is also involved with Green Rhino, a consultancy he started to develop organic farming in Kenya. Green Rhino works on creating new business models and professionalizing organic agriculture in the country. As part of this initiative, he is also associated with a partner platform called www.healthygreenchoice.com.2

Approach and Vision

Bert-Jan is passionate about:

• Promoting resilient and fair value chains
• Exploring how trade and commerce can foster development and sustain biodiversity
• Bringing innovative biodiversity products and concepts to market

He focuses on guiding and empowering communities and entrepreneurs faced with challenging economic environments, helping them develop value propositions based on quality and compliance.1

Bert-Jan Ottens is actively involved in various projects and initiatives related to sustainable agriculture and organic farming. He frequently participates in webinars and speaks at events related to these topics.45