Leading with purpose: 25 years of water sector evolution

Rick Elmendorp recalls how his passion for creating a positive impact led him to join the organisation. With a strong background in business management, finance, and the private sector, he was drawn to NWP five years ago as it allowed him to combine his expertise with a desire to tackle global water challenges – one of the most pressing issues of our time. The Dutch water sector, he emphasises, holds a unique position to drive meaningful change, and NWP acts as the connector, enabler, and catalyst in this.

NWP’s successful transition

However, his early years at NWP came with unexpected hurdles. “The outbreak of Covid-19 shortly after my arrival presented a significant challenge to NWP's core mission of connecting people and fostering collaboration. The traditional ways of networking and engaging had to be reimagined. Still, our team’s resilience and creativity helped them navigate the difficulties and develop new digital tools and strategies that continue to support the sector today,” Elmendorp recalls.

Reflecting on his initial years, he is particularly proud of NWP's successful transition towards becoming a more value-oriented and financially stable organisation. “As a foundation, NWP operates with a not-for-profit, not-for-loss principle, and striking the right balance between relevance and sustainability has been a key achievement.”

Realigning NWP’s long-term strategy

Since stepping into the role of Managing Director in 2023, he has been especially moved by the unity within the Dutch water sector, especially during the recent initiative to convey a collective message to the new Cabinet. “Despite varied interests across different subsectors, I can see the strength of cooperation and shared commitment to advancing the water sector's goals.”

Reflecting on the need for organisational transitions to stay relevant in a constantly evolving global landscape, Elmendorp states that "With the support of a dedicated team, advisory and supervisory boards, and the wider NWP membership, I remain confident that the organisation is well on track to recalibrate its long-term strategy and continue to connect and empower the sector."

As NWP marks its 25th year, Elmendorp’s message to members and partners is clear. "Global challenges are becoming increasingly complex, but the Dutch water sector is well positioned to lead on innovation and impact. The future will require even greater collaboration – within the sector, across generations, borders, and other industries – to truly address the multifaceted nature of these challenges.”

Water is critical in solving world issues

Looking ahead, Elmendorp sees water as a critical factor in solving many of the world’s most pressing issues, from health and food security to biodiversity and energy. "My vision for the water sector is for it to break out of its silos and become a central player on the global stage. NWP, with its extensive network and cross-sectoral approach, will continue to connect stakeholders and spark new opportunities. I hope the Dutch water sector embraces this pivotal role – not in isolation, but as a co-creator of solutions to the world’s challenges. Through greater collaboration and engagement beyond traditional borders, the sector can unlock the full potential of water as a force for good. And NWP will be there to connect the dots and drive the collective effort forward."