Leading in Europe

What is our role in Europe as a country? And in which areas can we make a difference in the world? Do geopolitical events like Brexit and Trump impact our economy or do we barely notice? And what kind of (economic) leadership does our country need for the next few years? These are but a few questions our keynote speakers will address in relation with their area of expertise. We get to hear two very interesting perspectives on our country, its economy and our place in Europe / the world. Business and politics, private and public sector, micro and macro points of view, and European trade; this afternoon will cover it all!

And perhaps the most interesting question, where do our speakers (dis)agree?

This event is organised by the Master Community International Economics & Business in cooperation with prof. dr. Harry Garretsen and prof. dr. Janka Stoker from In The Lead (http://www.rug.nl/inthelead/). The target audience are students from the Msc IE&B and IB&M, as well as faculty members and PhD. students of the GEM department.

**FIRST SPEAKER**

The first speaker of our very interesting afternoon will be Volkert Engelsman. He is founder and CEO of Eosta. This Dutch company is presently Europe’s most innovative importer, packer and distributor of organic and fair trade fresh food. Eosta serves major retailers and natural food stores throughout Europe, the USA, Canada, and the Far East.

From a business perspective, Mr. Engelsman will share his views on international trade, leading in sustainable business, and he will talk about impacts of current geopolitical events on his business.

**SECOND SPEAKER**

Our second speaker will be Han ten Broeke. He is a member of the Dutch Parliament and represents the liberal party (VVD). Han ten Broeke has been a member of Parliament (Tweede Kamer) for over 10 years now so has a great deal of experience. His portfolio comprises topics such as International Trade and Development, Foreign Affairs, Defense, European Affairs, and European Security and Defense.

Han ten Broeke will share his views on leadership, international trade, and the place of the Netherlands within Europe. His political perspective will shed an interesting light on current and future affairs in Europe.