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Puk de Jong
Innovation & sustainable transformation
Professional Background
Puk de Jong is a driven and innovative professional currently making significant strides in the realm of sustainability at adidas, where he serves as the Manager of Sustainability Innovation. In this dynamic role, Puk is responsible for spearheading projects that focus on integrating sustainable practices into the company's design and production processes. His leadership and strategic vision are contributing to adidas's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Prior to his current role, Puk honed his skills and expertise at PVH Europe B.V. where he held multiple positions, demonstrating a remarkable trajectory of growth and increasing responsibility. Starting as a Graduate Intern in Business Development, he moved on to become a Junior Project Manager and then advanced to the position of Project Manager for Implementation of the Digital Showroom. His hands-on experience in digital business transformation and innovation management has positioned him as a forward-thinking leader adept at navigating the complexities of the fashion industry in a digital age.
Beyond his tenure at PVH, Puk has gathered a diverse range of experiences that enrich his perspective on product design and innovation. He interned at PHYSEE, where he contributed to product development, and at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, where he gained insights into industry operations and research methodologies. Puk’s early career also included creative roles such as a Graphic Design position at Shillington Education, showcasing his versatile skill set that bridges technical engineering with creative design.
Education and Achievements
Puk de Jong’s educational background is anchored in esteemed institutions, with all his degrees earned at Delft University of Technology, a leading technical university in the Netherlands known for its rigorous engineering programs. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering, laying the groundwork for his understanding of complex systems and efficiency in product development.
Puk further advanced his academic pursuits with a Master of Science in Strategic Product Design. This graduate program equipped him with advanced skills in design methodology and strategic thinking, enabling him to create innovative solutions that align with market needs and consumer preferences. Additionally, he completed a Minor in International Entrepreneurship & Development which deepened his understanding of global markets and the impact of entrepreneurship on societal issues, especially in relation to sustainability.
Puk’s commitment to learning and professional development is further reflected in his engagement with various extracurricular activities during his academic journey. He was actively involved as a Treasurer at Delftsch Studenten Tooneel Gezelschap, where he honed his management and leadership skills. Additionally, Puk contributed to events organized by Integrand, which facilitated internships and career opportunities for students, showcasing his dedication to connecting education with industry practice.
Achievements
In his career thus far, Puk de Jong has amassed an impressive portfolio of achievements that highlight his strategic vision in sustainability and innovation management. At adidas, Puk has effectively led initiatives to integrate sustainability as a core principle in product development. His aim is to not only reduce the environmental footprint of the products but also to inspire other companies within the industry to adopt more sustainable practices.
As a Portfolio Manager of Innovation at PVH Europe B.V., he played a critical role in the development of digital solutions that transformed the customer experience and operational processes. Puk's innovative mindset was pivotal in the implementation of the Digital Showroom, a project that aimed to streamline the way products are showcased and sold, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the business.
Puk’s variety of experiences across different industries and roles has equipped him with a unique skill set that includes project management, business development, and product design. His multifaceted expertise allows him to approach challenges from diverse angles, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity in every project he undertakes.
Overall, Puk de Jong exemplifies the qualities of a visionary leader in the realm of sustainability and product design, diligently working towards creating a better future through innovative practices and responsible entrepreneurship.