During the 77th AIPH Annual Congress in Ghent, Belgium, Members of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) re-elected Mr Leonardo Capitanio as President and elected Mr Jack Goossens as its new Vice-President.
An Italian ornamental plant grower, Leonardo Capitanio, has always been involved in horticulture. He grew up on his father’s farm in Monopoli, Italy, and took over the nursery at the age of eighteen. From 2018 to 2022, he served as the President of ANVE, Italy’s association of ornamental plant exporters. In 2022, he was elected as President of AIPH and has since facilitated the association’s growth.
“I want to thank the whole AIPH team. Really, I am just a small part of AIPH, and I hope I can continue to lead the association on its mission to champion the power of plants.” – Leonardo Capitanio, AIPH President
Dutch floral entrepreneur Jack Goossens brings extensive experience in the global horticulture sector, where his leadership and commitment to sustainable ornamental production have made a significant impact. For close to 30 years, Goossens has served as the Co-Owner of Gova BV, a family-run nursery that specialises in Laurus nobilis, alongside his brother. International managerial skills complement his practical experience as a third-generation grower due to his time spent as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board for Royal FloraHolland.
In 2021, Goossens joined AIPH’s Board of Directors as the representative for Region II (South-West Europe). He also serves as the Chair of the Ornamentals Production Committee, which focuses on plant breeders’ rights, novelty protection, and sustainability in horticulture.
“I am looking forward to bringing my experience to the Board. Together, we can join our minds at AIPH to take a different perspective and make our industry stronger in the worldwide business of horticulture.” – Jack Goossens, AIPH Vice-President.
