FEB Alumni Network Symposium | Rosarium Amstelpark | Amsterdam

Dear alumni,

We are delighted to invite you to the upcoming FEB Alumni Network Symposium:
“Trade Wars and Business Strategy: How Companies Adapt to Geopolitical Uncertainty”

Global trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainties are transforming the way companies operate, manage risks, and position themselves in international markets. How can organisations adapt their strategies to stay ahead?

One of the key speakers is Peter Hein van Mulligen, Chief Economist and spokesperson at CBS - Statistics Netherlands and FEB alumnus (class of 1997).Known for his regular appearances in the media, Van Mulligen will shed light on what macroeconomic data reveals about global tensions, and how such insights can support strategic decision-making in business.

Peter Hein studied Economics in Groningen, earned his PhD in 2003, and joined CBS in 2010 as Chief Economist and spokesperson. While not a household name, he is sometimes seen on Dutch TV and has appeared on the popular quiz show De Slimste Mens. are pleased to invite you to the upcoming FEB Alumni Network Symposium:
“Trade Wars and Business Strategy: How Companies Adapt to Geopolitical Uncertainty”

"Global trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainties are transforming the way companies operate, manage risks, and position themselves in international markets. How can organisations adapt their strategies to stay ahead"

This symposium brings together insights from academia, government, and industry—shedding light on both theoretical frameworks and practical strategy in the face of global uncertainty.

🎤 Confirmed speakers include:

• Dr. Tristan Kohl, Associate Professor of International Economics, FEB
• Peter Hein van Mulligen, Chief Economist at Statistics Netherlands (CBS), FEB alumnus, 1997
• Manon Wolters, CEO of Hanzevast, FEB alumna, 2012

The event concludes with an engaging panel discussion, where you will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the speakers.

Symposium Programme

"Trade Wars and Business Strategy: How Companies Adapt to Geopolitical Uncertainty"

16:00 – 16:15 | Opening Remarks

16:15 – 16:45 | Keynote 1 – The Strategic Fallout of Trade Wars
Speaker: Dr. Tristan Kohl, Associate Professor of International Economics, FEB
Explore how trade wars disrupt global markets and reshape corporate decision-making. This session connects economic theory with the strategic and risk management implications for businesses.

16:45 – 17:15 | Keynote 2 – The Economic Data Behind Geopolitical Tensions
Speaker: Peter Hein van Mulligen, Chief Economist at CBS, FEB alumnus
What do the numbers tell us about the economic impact of trade wars and shifting alliances? This session unpacks macroeconomic trends and provides insights into how data can guide strategic business responses.

17:15 – 17:45 | Keynote 3 – Strategy in Times of Global Volatility
Speaker: Manon Wolters, CEO Hanzevast, FEB alumna
How does a company adjust its operations, investments, and supply chain in response to global instability? Learn from the real-world approach of a CEO navigating geopolitical risks in real estate and shipping.

17:45 – 18:15 | Panel Discussion – Business Strategy in a Geopolitical World
An interactive session where alumni are invited to pose questions and engage with the speakers on how companies can remain agile, resilient, and forward-looking in the face of geopolitical disruption.

18:15 – 20:30 | Streetfood dinner - Inside and garden of Rosarium

Reconnect with fellow alumni during an exclusive street food dinner in the beautiful park setting of Rosarium Amstelpark, featuring live serving stations with global flavors.

Who should attend?
This event is designed for alumni from all disciplines within economics and business—whether you’re working in finance, policy, strategy, logistics, or beyond and is open for the FEB Alumni Network community including students and staff of the university.

Strengthen your connection with FEB and your fellow alumni, and gain new perspectives on today’s economic and strategic challenges.

Registration and tickets:

FEB Alumni Network "donateurs" receive free admission — just make sure to reserve your ticket. More info about the benefits and how to sign up for this see below.
All other FEB alumni are welcome to join for €17,50, which includes access to the keynote talks and the networking streetfood dinner/drinks afterwards.

Students and staff can select special discount tickets. You are welcome to join and network!

Would you like to support your FEB Alumni Network and enjoy free tickets for our events?

By supporting the FEB Alumni Network, you receive free access to all our alumni events throughout the year. Your contribution also helps strengthen the alumni community and supports the development of a valuable network of connections for students, alumni, and the faculty. The annual contribution to the FEB Alumni Network Foundation is €35,-.

Get your donateur ticket now and complete your registration on-site during the alumni event or register through the FEB website.
https://www.rug.nl/feb/alumni-network/support-the-feb-alumni-network

Do you have any questions? Feel free to email us at [email protected].