Johan Reijenga

Johan Reijenga is a senior lecturer and researcher at the Business Innovation Knowledge Center of Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, where he has been affiliated for over 26 years. In this role, he conducts research and advises companies and organizations on strategy, leadership, and innovation. Additionally, he is the owner of the coaching and consultancy firm Zin In Ontwikkeling, which provides executive coaching, leadership development, and strategic advice to directors, managers, and entrepreneurs in both the private and public sectors.

Reijenga's educational background includes studies in Economics and Law (teacher training program) and a Master's in Marketing. His professional journey began in 1987 as a teacher of economics, marketing, and management in secondary vocational education, where he worked until 1997. In 1997, he joined what was then the Hogeschool voor Economische Studies, continuing at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences after the 2002 merger. Throughout his career, he has served in various roles including teacher, educational manager, director, and most recently as senior lecturer and researcher at the Business Innovation Knowledge Center.

Reijenga's research interests center around strategic leadership, innovation, and change management, with a particular focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and family businesses. His work explores how leaders can navigate the transition from the present to the future while balancing exploitation and exploration. He emphasizes a holistic perspective on leadership as a social process rather than merely a functional role, investigating how to unlock potential in individuals and organizations. His research often examines the intersection of theory and practice, aiming to create meaningful impact through practical applications that address societal challenges.

His publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on strategic leadership in SMEs, innovation processes, and broad prosperity in family businesses. Over the years, Reijenga has developed frameworks for strategic leadership that consider time and space dimensions, and he has explored how leaders can facilitate meaningful transitions in organizations. His recent work increasingly addresses how businesses can contribute to societal prosperity beyond financial metrics.

Reijenga is actively involved in guiding student research, particularly through the minor+ Leiderschap program at HRBS, where he mentors students working with entrepreneurs in SMEs on strategic leadership topics. He has also co-led the Silicon Venturing Rotterdam innovation lab (2014-2021) in collaboration with the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Dordrecht, working with students from approximately 15 different programs to strengthen the hospital's innovation capacity through technological and social innovation.

Central to Reijenga's work is his Living Lab Schiedistrict initiative and his involvement in projects related to circular hospitals, broad wealth creation through family businesses, and the digital transformation of accounting firms. His approach emphasizes practical application, connecting theoretical frameworks with real-world business challenges to create tangible impact.