Erik Centen – Managing Director, Fancom B.V.
Agritech companies are the driving force behind the transition in agriculture, with Dutch frontrunners like Fancom pushing boundaries with their cutting-edge product portfolio. "When it comes to agriculture and livestock, you can either stand on the sidelines or parrot others, but here you can truly make a difference!"
Erik Centen - Managing Director
Financial Erik Centen decided six years ago that he wanted more influence on strategy, decisions, new products, and new systems, so he moved from a multinational to an SME. He is now the Managing Director of agritech company Fancom, providing innovative solutions for a more sustainable and food-secure future.
What problem does Fancom solve?
"The traditional way of livestock farming is no longer sustainable. Larger companies, increasingly stringent requirements, and shortages of experienced employees demand more advanced solutions. We offer these with smart barns featuring automation and intelligence. The benefits include a more efficient, sustainable, and animal-friendly livestock farming."
Can you give an example?
"Well, think of sensors taking over the 'eye of the master' from the traditional farmer, a camera that automatically measures the weight of pigs without stressing the animals, or a computer adjusting the indoor climate based on sensor readings and the type and age of the animals. Our latest development is the Fancom One controller: a revolutionary computer for achieving superior barn conditions. With the release of this innovation, we're back at the top spot right away."
You mentioned being number one. How is Fancom's overall position?
What makes you unique?
I sense a lot of ambition. What do you aim to achieve?
This way, you have a positive impact on the world.
You are looking for a DIRECTOR INNOVATION. WHY IS INNOVATION SO IMPORTANT TO YOU?
“Innovation is not a luxury for us, but a necessity. The world around us is changing rapidly, from sustainability and digitalization to consumer behavior and technological advancement. To remain relevant, we must continuously improve and dare to innovate. We do this not only in product development, but also in how we make processes smarter and add value for customers and our own organization.
A great example is Fancom One, the new Smart Farm Ecosystem. It's not just a standalone tool, but an integrated system that helps farmers elevate stable conditions to a higher level. Smart technology and process control come together there. That's exactly how we see innovation too: as a way to connect different disciplines, to achieve more control, efficiency, and impact.
The Director of Innovation must provide direction in that. Not only generating ideas, but also realizing them. And above all: involving and inspiring others in that process.”
How would you describe the culture?
“At our location in Panningen, there has always been a family-like culture. As part of an American company and with more and more international colleagues among us, a nice mix has emerged of North Limburg no-nonsense attitude and global exposure. No nonsense, result-oriented and enjoying our work, that's what matters to us. The same goes for our customers; they are central to us, because ultimately we develop new products for them. If these characteristics suit you well, then you will find yourself in a very pleasant, passionate environment where we want to accelerate.”
Are you ready to take that next step?
Photo: Photography Kuit
[Published: April 2024]
