Nyenrode Business University has appointed Prof. Dr. Ir. Nicolas Chevrollier as Professor of Sustainability Transitions. With this appointment, Nyenrode strengthens its focus on the acceleration of sustainable change in business and society. The chair is embedded in the Center for Entrepreneurship, Governance & Stewardship.
“We are delighted to appoint Nicolas to this chair. Given his strong academic track record and excellent teaching capabilities, I am confident that he will develop this chair in an outstanding way,” says Prof. Dr. Barbara Majoor, Rector Magnificus of Nyenrode Business University.
Advancing transitions to a sustainable economy
The Sustainability Transitions Chair focuses on accelerating the shift toward more sustainable and just socioeconomic systems. research program of the chair revolves around three pillars:
- Market dynamics and transition acceleration – understanding how companies, investors, regulators, and civil society can jointly speed up sustainability transitions.
- Post‑growth transitions – exploring alternatives to growth‑dependent economic models and their implications for strategy, governance, and performance.
- Transformative business education – developing educational approaches that equip students and professionals with the mindset and skills needed to drive sustainability transitions in practice.
“Sustainability transitions involve long‑term developments with significant short‑term implications for organizations. This requires new competences, new collaborations, and sometimes entirely new business models,” says Prof. Dr. Ir. Chevrollier. “My ambition is to help organizations navigate these transitions in a way that is scientifically grounded and societally meaningful.”
Looking ahead
In the coming years, Prof. Dr. Ir. Chevrollier will expand research activities, contribute to executive and degree programs, and collaborate with companies, policymakers, and societal partners to accelerate sustainability transitions. “Through the Sustainability Transitions Chair, Nyenrode aims to strengthen both academic insights and real‑world impact in the transition toward a sustainable and just economy,” says Prof. Dr. Ir. Henk Kievit, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Ecosystems and Center Director. “This aligns with our mission to shape responsible leaders for a sustainable future.”
A multidisciplinary academic path
Prof. Dr. Ir. Chevrollier’s academic journey is a multidisciplinary exploration of technology, business, and sustainability. He obtained his PhD in 2006 and spent a decade developing and supporting impact‑driven companies, particularly in Sub‑Saharan Africa. Since joining Nyenrode in 2015, his work on sustainability transitions has expanded through international collaboration and applied research. “Sustainability transitions are highly systemic and deeply personal,” says Chevrollier. “That duality is central to my research, my teaching, and the way I work with organizations.”