Ronald de Jong is a firm believer in the power of innovation and collaboration to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges and create lasting, positive impacts across society. Following a nearly 30-year career at Philips, where he held various executive positions, Ronald retired from executive life in November 2019. Since then, he has been dedicated to contributing to meaningful change, particularly through his roles as Chair of the Philips Foundation and as a Professor at Tilburg University.

With a focus on bridging the gap between theory and practice, Ronald serves as a Distinguished Professor of Practice in Business at Tilburg University. In this capacity, he works closely with students to equip them with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact in the world. He also ensures that research conducted at the university has real-world implications and addresses societal needs.

Ronald’s mission extends beyond academia. He is committed to leveraging his extensive experience in business to foster stronger connections between companies, business leaders, the public sector, and NGOs. Through advisory roles in both the public and private sectors, Ronald aims to drive broader societal change, addressing issues ranging from climate change and healthcare inequalities to the global refugee crisis. He believes that multi-stakeholder collaboration is key to driving lasting, positive impacts on a global scale.

Passionate about making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, Ronald is dedicated to teaching the next generation of leaders to drive meaningful change. Whether in business, academia, or advisory roles, he remains steadfast in his commitment to creating a better future for all.