The International Coffee Organization (ICO) has announced the appointment of Ms. Hannelore Beerlandt as the incoming Head of Operations (HOO). With her extensive expertise in international cooperation and agricultural value chains, Ms. Beerlandt will bring a fresh perspective and strategic leadership to the organization.
Transition Plan and Responsibilities
Ms. Beerlandt will collaborate closely with the outgoing HOO, Mr. Gerardo Patacconi, ensuring a seamless transition. This period of collaboration will continue until the conclusion of the 139th Session of the International Coffee Council, scheduled for March 2025. Following the session, she will officially assume her responsibilities.
The ICO’s Executive Director has expressed enthusiasm for working with Ms. Beerlandt, emphasizing her ability to strengthen the organization’s advocacy for the coffee sector on a global scale.
A Rich Professional Background
Ms. Beerlandt’s distinguished career includes a wealth of experience in sustainable agriculture, international development, and trade in global commodities. Key highlights of her career include:
- Senior Advisor, European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, focusing on sustainable agriculture and global commodity trade.
- Senior Advisor, FAO Investment Center, where she contributed to agricultural investment projects.
- CEO of AgriCord, a network of agri-agencies supporting farmers in developing countries.
- President of ENABEL, Belgium’s Development Agency.
- Board Member of Kampani, an investment fund empowering agricultural SMEs.
Academic Credentials
Ms. Beerlandt holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering with a specialization in Agricultural Economics and another Master’s in Development Economics, both from the Catholic University of Leuven. Her multidisciplinary expertise is complemented by fluency in Dutch, English, and French, along with proficiency in German, Spanish, and Kiswahili.
Vision for the ICO
Ms. Beerlandt’s leadership is expected to bolster the ICO’s efforts in promoting sustainability and innovation within the coffee industry. Her extensive background in agricultural value chains and her commitment to inclusive development make her uniquely positioned to tackle the challenges and opportunities facing the global coffee sector today.
The ICO team eagerly anticipates the positive contributions Ms. Beerlandt will bring to advancing its mission and supporting coffee-producing regions worldwide.