High Tech NL Association Appoints Eric-Mark Huitema as New Executive Director

Eindhoven, November 4, 2024 – The board of the High Tech NL Association has appointed Eric-Mark Huitema as its new executive director, effective today. He succeeds Willem Endhoven, who, after ten years at the helm of the association, will now enjoy his well-deserved “semi-retirement.”

Eric-Mark Huitema brings extensive international experience as a CEO, director-general, and managing director in sectors such as the automotive industry, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), electromobility, quantum computing, IT services, and the semiconductor industry. With his technical background from Delft University of Technology and his training in strategy and dealmaking at INSEAD, he possesses in-depth strategic and technological expertise.

His 18 years at IBM, where his responsibilities included leading AI and IoT initiatives in the transportation and infrastructure sectors, have shaped him into a hands-on leader with a unique vision for digital transformation and innovation in rapidly changing markets. As the former Director General of ACEA in Brussels, he has led global initiatives for sustainable mobility and the modernization of organizations within the high-tech and automotive sectors.

Paul van Attekum, chairman of the board of High Tech NL, expresses his appreciation for the outgoing CEO’s contribution: “It was quite a challenge to find a replacement for Willem. His broad knowledge, boundless dedication, and the many doors he has opened have been invaluable to the growth of our association. Given our current growth trajectory, we are convinced that Eric-Mark, with his experience, is the ideal person to take High Tech NL to the next level.”

Eric-Mark Huitema is looking forward to his new role and the future of the Dutch high-tech sector: “I’m excited to build on the strong foundation that has been laid and to use my skills and vision to achieve High Tech NL’s ambitious goals. My goal is to make High Tech NL the go-to point of contact and the central hub for the Dutch high-tech industry. This means we want to create a network centered on collaboration and innovation, so that the Netherlands continues to be recognized internationally as a leader in high-tech.” He adds: “The Netherlands holds a leading position in the high-tech sector, which we as an association want to strengthen and promote worldwide.”