Organisation - May 27, 2010
Wageningen UR must study marketing
Terms like 'marketing' and 'reputation management' were being bandied about during the strategy meeting with corporate staff and facilities and services at the head office. These themes were considered to be the ones that would help Wageningen UR to attract money.

BP disaster
For instance: where was Wageningen UR during the BP disaster? Did Wageningen offer its products to the US? A missed chance, people thought. They were in agreement that Wageningen UR possesses much valuable expertise, and that it simply does not make optimal use of it. It seems as though Wageningen is good at preserving the status quo, but is scared of change.
The prestigious American institute MIT was cited as an example of a place that is good at marketing knowledge. And marketing is an underrated skill, was one comment. That must change. Student recruitment used to be almost a dirty word, but now it is an integral part of Wageningen UR policy.
Debate
Joining in societal debates is another way in which Wageningen UR could raise its profile. Chairperson Herman Eijsackers said the ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food (LNV) thought that Wageningen should speak out more on social issues, and have an open attitude to society. Wageningen should want to enter into debate and should have the courage to do so too.