Ward de Groote

Ward has a passion for sustainability and supply chains. After working for Ahold Coffee Company, Ward decided to start his own company for Sustainability Consultancy and Interim Management in 2009.

Ward worked for years in the coffee business as Buyer, Manager of the Buying and Sourcing, Product Group Manager and, finally, as CEO. In 2001, Ward founded Utz Certified together with Nick Bocklandt. Founding Utz Certified and bringing certified coffee successfully to mainstream consumers has contributed to his experience and knowledge in sustainable concepts and their professional implementation.

Ward is very enthusiastic about the People 4 Earth initiative and is committed to introduce this new sustainability program to the community and to companies. "It is about time that consumers know where and how goods are produced. Transparency, full traceability and honest information for all people will lead to a sustainable earth". www.warddegroote.com