Associations in 2023 back from the Future: Ask Sandra

Ask Sandra

After reading the interview with Sandra de Jong, Director of V&V Management, the editorial team still had some pressing questions. This prompted a collegial dialogue ‘across decades’ with our future industry peer.

SdJ: “Polarisation is still a significant issue today. There remains a stark difference between countries and regions with ample access to resources and technology and poorer areas. Developed regions have progressed faster in sustainability, while other regions lag behind, relying on outdated methods. Businesses must increasingly tailor their strategies to regional disparities, which limits their ability to scale up. Sector organisations like ours are working to bridge the gap by supporting smaller businesses, but without strong governmental leadership, this remains a challenge.”

Many essential changes in energy, circularity, and sustainability were long delayed. How did businesses and governments eventually approach the transition?

SdJ: “Delaying change led to significant problems. Businesses and governments ultimately had to adopt strict measures, such as CO₂ taxes and circularity legislation. Some businesses were unable to adapt quickly enough, but sector organisations played a critical role by helping companies comply with the new regulations. Nevertheless, not all businesses could withstand the pressure, leading some to downsize or shut down. By 2030, however, we see that businesses that anticipated and embraced these changes early are now leading in sustainability and have gained market share due to their proactive approach.”

What are the greatest challenges for the new generation? How have they adapted to this changing world in 2030, and how are they being supported by sector organisations?

SdJ: ““The new generation has shown remarkable flexibility and innovation, leaving a strong mark on businesses and policies. Young entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of technological innovation, particularly in sectors such as healthcare and ICT. However, the greatest challenge for them remains inequality, particularly in access to resources and opportunities. Sector organisations are supporting young talent through training programmes, mentorship, and access to networks. Yet, without decisive government intervention, this remains one of the biggest hurdles.”

From 2030, what advice would you give us to better address these challenges in 2024?

SdJ: Don’t wait until the crisis becomes inevitable; start developing scenarios and options now to ensure flexible responses. Looking back, businesses that invested early in sustainability, technology, and collaboration are far better positioned today than those that waited. In 2024, uncertainty was widespread, but those who shifted their focus towards long-term strategies now have the greatest advantage. I would also advise focusing not only on technological innovation but also on social innovation. The challenges of polarisation and inequality can only be addressed if businesses, governments, and citizens collaborate to build an inclusive society. The transitions you are undergoing now, such as in energy and circularity, are not merely technological issues; they require fundamental changes in how we organise our society.”

How can we ensure that businesses and governments cooperate rather than oppose one another in the coming years?

SdJ: “Sector associations act as bridges between governments and businesses. Between 2024 and 2030, we achieved significant success by creating platforms where businesses, governments, and citizens collaboratively developed solutions for challenges like the energy transition and circular economy. In 2024, you must already begin strengthening these partnerships. Proactively engage in dialogue with governments, set shared goals, and ensure everyone feels accountable for the outcome.”

Jules Lejeune

Six Decades of Lejeune Association Management. Read all the blogs via the links below:

The 1940/50’s | The 1960’s | The 1970’s | The 1980’s | The 1990’s | The 2000’s | The 2010’s | The 2020’ s| The future 2030’s | Navigating Uncertainty | Back from the future ask Sandra