Shaping the Future of Water Through Innovation – with Hanneke van de Ven, Sector Director for Distribution at Brabant Water in the Netherlands

In this episode of the Exec Exchange podcast, host Piers Clark interviews Hanneke van de Ven, the Sector Director for Distribution at Brabant Water in the Netherlands. Hanneke shares her career transition from consultancy to the drinking water sector and highlights the innovative projects Brabant Water is undertaking, particularly in asset management and non-invasive pipeline inspections. The conversation delves into the importance of innovation and agility in the water sector, the challenges posed by an aging workforce, and the successful implementation of technologies like KenWave for pipeline monitoring. The episode wraps up with Hanneke’s advice for her younger self, emphasizing curiosity and seizing opportunities.00:00 Introductions00:30 Hanneke's Background and Role01:46 Overview of Brabant Water02:23 The Need for Innovation in the Water Sector04:16 KenWave Project and Non-Invasive Technology06:17 Trial Process and Results08:54 Importance of Innovation at Brabant Water09:44 Final Thoughts and Advice