The Northern Investment and Development Company (NOM) welcomes Dr. Melissa Fuller as its new Manager Innovation & Internationalization. Although Melissa already joined the organization in a transitional phase in late 2025, she will take up her full position as of February 1, 2026.
With Melissa's appointment, NOM brings in an experienced strategist with deep roots in the Northern Netherlands. Originally American, she has lived and worked in the region for more than 25 years and brings extensive experience at the intersection of international collaboration, innovation ecosystems and strategic leadership.
Connection between ambition and responsibility In her role, Melissa is responsible for the strategy in the field of innovation and internationalization. Her vision is characterized by a strong focus on the human touch and long-term relationships with SMEs. "Innovative SMEs are the engine and heart of our regional economy," Melissa said. "I see it as my job not only to make that engine run harder, but also to connect it to the major societal transitions we face."
Dina Boonstra, managing director of NOM, is delighted with Fuller's arrival: "With Melissa we are bringing in a connector pur sang. Her unique combination of academic depth in the field of human relations and her extensive experience in the northern innovation chain fits our ambition perfectly. She understands better than anyone that real change and growth always start with genuine curiosity and collaboration."
Background
Melissa Fuller earned her doctorate in communication sciences with research on empathy as a professional competency and an MBA in SME development. Her career spans positions within education, government and business in all three northern provinces.
Role within NOM
At NOM, she leads the Innovation and Internationalization teams; teams that work daily to strengthen the competitiveness and cross-border ambitions of Northern Netherlands entrepreneurs. Her approach focuses on long-term relationship building, lifelong learning and connecting economic ambition with social responsibility.
"For over twenty years I have lived and worked with conviction in the Northern Netherlands - not only because it is a beautiful region, but because I believe in the enormous potential here," Melissa concludes. "I look forward to working with the teams to build the next phase of sustainable growth, innovation and international cooperation."