Dümmen Orange names new CEO
Dümmen Orange has appointed Ellen Mackenbach-Lakeman as its new chief executive officer, effective May 1. She will succeed interim chief executive officer Anthony Christiaanse, who led the company during a year of transition.
Mackenbach-Lakeman has been with the company’s executive committee since 2020 as chief human resources officer. In that role, she focused on company culture, global HR leadership and the rollout of sustainability initiatives.
Dümmen Orange is a global breeder and propagator of flowers and plants. With a portfolio of patented varieties and propagation sites worldwide, the company serves growers, wholesalers and retailers. Its modern Breeding Technology Centre supports its efforts in genetic development and disease resistance—key areas for commercial greenhouse growers.
The leadership transition follows a year in which the company refined its strategic direction and emphasized operational efficiency.
“It’s the right time for the organization to take this next step,” Mackenbach-Lakeman said. “We are focusing on the product segments and distribution channels where we are strong and have a solid position, enabling us to support our customers with high-quality, innovative products.”
Chairman of the supervisory board Henk Pieter van Asselt credited Christiaanse for steering the company through a pivotal year that included changes in ownership and improvements in quality, risk management and customer satisfaction.
Dümmen Orange employs 5,300 people and is headquartered in De Lier, the Netherlands.
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