Rutger is Project Manager at BPIE, and has previously finished his MSc Industrial Ecology at the TU Delft and Leiden University. Combining insights of social and natural sciences, he strives to become a bridge builder in the energy transition. Next to his standard study program, he completed the Climate KIC Master Label Program. His thesis researched concerned citizen participation in the transition to sustainably heating the built environment in the Netherlands.

Rutger became acquainted with comparative policy analysis while performing a research project for the Netherlands Institute of Multiparty Democracy in The Hague. Besides an exchange program in political science to the Université de Poitiers in France, Rutger worked half a year as junior officer in the field of public and economic diplomacy at the Dutch Consulate General in Cape Town. Additionally, he has half a year experience as communication manager in the start-up scene in Amsterdam and performed communication work for various Dutch Industry Associations. Just before joining BPIE, he finished a research project in heating installations in the context of energy and environmental performance of buildings for the Dutch Heating Industry Association. Next to his work, Rutger has organized multiple events and conferences related to the energy transition. His latest work experience and graduation have further strengthened his commitment to an energy efficient and environmentally sustainable built environment in Europe.

As facilitator and trainer, he has shared his enthusiasm about public speaking and rhetoric with a broad and international audience. He is always open for a conversation in Dutch, English, French or German. As a true Dutchman, he loves riding his bike whenever he can.

After work, Rutger likes to dance or do sports before cooking tasty and nutritious meals.