Don van Iterson
Don van Iterson is a junior researcher within the Sustainable Finance & Accounting research group at Wellbeing Economy and New Entrepreneurship (BWNO). Driven by his interest in the circular economy, he explores how companies can create non-financial value and communicate more effectively about their sustainability goals. In addition, he supervises students who aim to make an impact within organizations. With a background in Finance & Control and a master’s degree in Finance from Tilburg University, he combines financial expertise with a strong focus on sustainability.
Expertise
Don has a financial background and, during his studies, learned extensively about the linear economy. This made him reflect: how is it possible that humanity leaves so much value untapped? Could value not be derived from circular production processes or financing models? These questions led Don to focus on multiple value creation.
He believes it is important that companies give this topic sufficient attention and actively set non-financial objectives. In addition, Don focuses on how organizations communicate their sustainability goals and ambitions to the outside world, drawing on his knowledge of sustainability reporting.
Research
Don’s research centers on financing issues within the theme of Sustainable Finance. He investigates the motivations for investing in companies with social or societal purposes in the project Impact Up. He also conducts research into greenhushing—the deliberate undercommunication of sustainability efforts—in sustainability communication and reporting. Moreover, he supervises graduating students who are committed to sustainable development and aim to make a lasting impact within organizations.
Career
Don studied Finance & Control at Avans University of Applied Sciences and completed his graduation research in the field of circular construction. In this project, he examined the financial aspects of establishing a company focused on reusing building materials. He then obtained a master’s degree in Finance at Tilburg University to broaden his expertise, with special attention to sustainable finance and the impact of non-financial factors within organizations.