Ms. Marlies Van Wijhe

Marlies van Wijhe (1965) is born and raised in Zwolle, The Netherlands. Although very fond of biology, she decided in 1983 to study Business Administration at Groningen University (RUG). She graduated in 1989 and started her career at the big Dutch chemical multinational DSM. In 1994 she returned to Zwolle and joined the family business Royal Van Wijhe Verf to build and expand the export business. In 2000 her father retired and she took over the helm of the Family Business as the 4th generation. Together with her sister, who is the corporate marketing manager, she runs the business with great pleasure. This 4th generation company is the third largest decorative paint producer in The Netherlands with the brand Wijzonol, the export brand is Ralston. Innovation and Sustainability are important pillars of the company. 

Next to being the CEO of Van Wijhe she is chair of FBNed (the Dutch family business association) and chair of the Future for Nature Foundation that supports young nature conservationists around the world.