Working on an interim basis? That's also possible through Nomilk2day. Ingrid Jonker started as Commercial Director at Hortimare through this route. This position suits her well alongside her own startup. She is enthusiastic about the possibilities of seaweed and is familiar with the challenges in this sector. "I've learned: if you don't focus and dare to make choices, you won't get anywhere."
How did you get to know Nomilk2day?
"During my time at The Seaweed Company, Nomilk2day approached us for a place for an intern. Someone who wanted to gain experience in seaweed. It was a satisfactory experience for both sides. Unfortunately, the adventure at The Seaweed Company ended in September 2024, as the shareholder opted for a change in direction. I found that very disappointing because I felt I wasn't finished with seaweed yet."
What was your next step?
A startup is usually not immediately profitable; were you looking for a job alongside it?
Then Nomilk2day came back into your life with a role in the seaweed business. Were you immediately enthusiastic?
Can you tell us more about the different applications? What potential does seaweed have?
“In addition, seaweed can play a role in the energy transition and in strengthening soil and plants in agriculture, which could eventually reduce the use of artificial fertilizers. There are also pilot projects to use seaweed as a replacement for plastic, in the clothing industry, and in the cosmetic industry.”
There are numerous companies worldwide involved in seaweed. What is the strength of Hortimare?
“Hortimare has been around since 2008 and has a large greenhouse in Heerhugowaard. Around twenty people work here. Its strength lies in having expertise that not many other seaweed companies worldwide possess. Hortimare focuses on seaweed propagation and helps seaweed farmers worldwide with strong and healthy starting materials. Additionally, the company conducts research to improve seaweed in a better and more sustainable way.”
“Hortimare has a stable shareholder: De Groot and Slot, a global leader in onion seed. They own multiple companies and believe in this sustainable investment.”
What do you bring to Hortimare?
“Focus, focus, and more focus. The broad potential of seaweed can also be a pitfall. Without focus, everything seems interesting, and in the end, you achieve nothing. The seaweed business is heavily subsidy-driven. But without finding partners for the commercial process, you won't progress. I made it clear from the start: 'If you expect to be profitable within a year, then don't hire me. I can promise to bring focus and structure and work only on projects with a commercial outcome.' Hortimare already has two types of seaweed that are commercially viable. Let's ensure that all seaweed farmers use our seeds. That's a good start to generate revenue. Then, I want to focus on a limited number of species.”
“In previous roles, I have worked extensively with researchers and technicians. They have a different way of thinking: it must be perfect before we scale it up. Sometimes, they get lost in details. From my experience in our startup, it doesn't have to be perfect. As long as you are clear and transparent, you can definitely make progress.”
How did you start?
“By observing carefully and having many conversations: what is the current situation? That is my starting point. I believe it's essential to get to know everyone personally and their role in the company. To discover: what do you need, and what can be improved or done differently?”
What characterizes your way of working?
“I began my career at Van Eeghen & Co, a specialist in raw materials for dietary supplements and baby food. I was fortunate to have an inspiring manager who taught me a lot. As a commercial director, I hope to pass that on to others: curiosity from an open mind. Dare to keep asking questions and admit when you don't know something.”
“I also have perseverance and determination to get things done. I can distinguish between essential and non-essential matters, which helps in setting the right priorities. I consider collaboration vital in a team. Have fun together because you spend many hours a week with each other. A good atmosphere is crucial.”
When is your mission at Hortimare successful?
“My goal is to bring focus in the coming year and take steps in the commercial process. We now have a one-year employment contract. If the collaboration proves to be successful, I may be employed. For now, the interim basis is ideal due to the flexibility for both the company and myself. We get to know each other and can see what our collaboration brings.”
