Hans Kok is an experienced academic leader, researcher, and educator with a distinguished career spanning science, business, international relations, and higher education. As Dean of the International Business School The Hague, he is responsible for programme development, accreditation, academic quality assurance, and curriculum innovation.
He combines a strong scientific research background with extensive experience in management, leadership training, and international education. His work reflects a consistent focus on sustainability, organisational development, and the practical application of academic knowledge.
Current Role
Hans Kok has served as Dean of the International Business School The Hague since 2016. In this capacity, he oversees academic strategy, quality control, and programme development across Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, and professional programmes. He is actively involved in teaching and training in areas including project management, leadership, international relations, agriculture and development, and research methods, working with students, managers, non-profit organisations, and government professionals from diverse international backgrounds.
Academic and Professional Appointments
In addition to his role at IBSH, Hans Kok holds several international academic appointments:
- Visiting Professor, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Nigeria
(Department of Business Administration & Marketing) - Deputy Faculty Member, Bakke Graduate University, Dallas, Texas, USA
Education
- PhD in Biology, Radboud University Nijmegen, Netherlands
Thesis: Decomposition of floating leaves of Nymphaea alba L. under alkaline and acid conditions - Master’s Degree in Biology, Radboud University Nijmegen, Netherlands
Major: Aquatic Ecology; Minors: Soil Science, Plant Physiology - Executive Diploma in Ministerial Leadership, European Leadership Academy, Amsterdam
- Certificate in Biblical Studies, Online Bible College
Professional Experience
Hans Kok spent over two decades as a researcher and project leader at Plant Research International, Wageningen University & Research, where he specialised in soil ecology, plant pathology, and sustainable agricultural systems. During this period, he also served as interim head of the Soil Ecology Department.
From 2007 to 2010, he was seconded to Ceradis, a Wageningen University spin-off, where he held senior responsibilities in R&D leadership, intellectual property management, business development, and contract negotiations.
Alongside his scientific career, Hans Kok has extensive experience in leadership development and organisational training, including senior roles within the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Europe, where he worked in administration, leadership training, cross-cultural communication, and church growth initiatives.
Areas of Expertise
Academic and Scientific
- Aquatic and Soil Ecology
- Microbial Ecology and Nematology
- Sustainable Agriculture and Plant Protection
Business and Management
- Leadership and Organisational Development
- Project and Financial Management
- Contracts, Negotiations, and IP Management
- Sustainability in Business
International Relations
- International Negotiations
- Trade Policy and Development
- Middle East Conflict and Global Affairs
Education
- Curriculum and Programme Development (Bachelor to Doctoral level)
- Online and Hybrid Education Strategies
- Thesis and Dissertation Supervision
Research, Publications, and Patents
Hans Kok is the author or co-author of more than 25 peer-reviewed scientific publications, numerous professional articles, and several book chapters. He is also the holder of four international patents related to plant protection and agricultural innovation. His recent academic work includes publications on corporate social responsibility, ESG, leadership, and sustainability .
Keynote and Public Engagement
Hans Kok is a regular speaker at international conferences and professional forums. In 2025, he delivered a keynote address on Leadership, Strategic Ethics, and the Effectiveness of International Law at an international conference in The Hague Curriculum vitae