Paula Gonzalez

Paula Gonzalez is a strategic and technical managing director with over 15 years of experience in developing and implementing innovative environmental technologies across diverse industries. Her journey began in 2006 at WUR, where she refined her skills and expertise in Environmental Technology. For the past decade, she has dedicated herself to implementing technologies, exploring new markets, and managing diverse teams at Paques, firmly believing that a good business delivers profits while prioritizing the well-being of both people and the planet.

“As a young, international, female professional swiftly exposed to management, I've gained valuable experience in overcoming obstacles. Mentoring provides an opportunity not only to share what I've learned but also to inspire growth in both entrepreneurs and myself.”

skills and field of expertise

  • General Management and Leadership: Provide strategic direction and make decisive choices to drive organizational growth.

  • Competitive Analysis: Assess industry trends and regulatory environments against the organization's unique selling points (USPs).

  • Lead the introduction of innovative technologies.

  • Risk Assessment and Contract Negotiation.

  • Develop business strategy matrices integrating financial and sustainability parameters (S1, S2, and S3)

  • Effective Board Communication: Deliver compelling presentations.

  • Team Building and Change Management: Build high-performing teams by selecting talent that aligns with company objectives.

  • Crisis Management.

background

  • 2019-2023 Managing Director of Paques Europe.

  • 2018 Head of Global Services at Paques.

  • 2017 Head of Global Industry/Strategy at Paques.

  • 2016 Business development at Paques Global.

  • 2013- 2015 Process/Technology Specialist at Paques Global.

  • 2015-2016 Executive Business Administration. EMBA at Rotterdam Erasmus. 

  • 2008-2012 Doctor of Philosophy at Wageningen University. Specialization in Enviromental Technology. 

  • 2004-2006 Master of Science in Biochemical Engineering at Pontificia University Católica de Valparaíso. 

  • 1999-2003 Bioprocess Engineering at Pontificia University Católica de Valparaíso.

personal passions

  • Jury member of the Water Business Challenge Rabobank Wetsus. 

  • Many sports: rock climbing, biking (touring and race), occasionally running, walking in the mountains. 

  • Reading about European history, self development and sometimes a good novel.