Trial and Error

In the ‘Trial and Error’ session, Willem Swager, Director of Finance and Operations for Patagonia, EMEA, will share practical examples and valuable insights from Patagonia’s experience that will inspire you to embrace sustainable initiatives and find your own path to responsible entrepreneurship. Patagonia has been a successful company for over 50 years, proving that doing the right things from the start can be profitable. The proof is in the pudding: who better to inspire you to do things differently and better than Patagonia?

Be inspired by the proven successes and learn from the challenges Patagonia has overcome. This session offers you the unique opportunity to learn from an industry leader that is committed to both social and environmental responsibility.

At Patagonia, Willem is dedicated to systematically addressing the devastating impact of the industry through Patagonia programs, industry collaborations and mentoring a new generation of responsible entrepreneurs.

Willem is a visionary leader with extensive experience in the apparel industry. He focuses on circularity and rapidly scaling up repair across Europe. Patagonia was crucial in setting up the United Repair Centre network of repair facilities, in collaboration with Makers Unite and the Amsterdam Economic Board. This network promotes social impact and environmental awareness, changing customer behaviour towards repair and conscious consumption.