Fond Farewell to Marketing Professor Jos Van Acker
It is
with sorrow that we have learned that Professor Emeritus Jos Van Acker, the
founder of Marketing in Belgium, has passed away. Not only was he Belgium’s very
first marketing professor, but as Professor André Vlerick’s first assistant he
helped Prof Vlerick lay the foundations for Vlerick Leuven Gent Management
School and, in particular, the current Masters in Marketing programme (at the
time of its inception, it was known as the Special Licence Marketing).
A professor as a professor should be
“Lessons in which each word was carefully considered, with carefully
composed structure and nuanced message. His texts well thought-out and perfectly
balanced. Champion for ‘commercial policy’ – of course, not the slick sales
pitch, nor the obvious advertisement, but rather a methodical approach towards
the customer. Jos, to friends and acquaintances, the stylish perfectionist. Dark
blue suit and light blue shirt, and always with an amiable smile. Constructive
discussions rounded out with a small glass of sherry. Providing opportunities to
young students. Conscientious and with a deep sense of justice. With soundness
and a sense of responsibility, sympathetic towards the School’s future. Tactful
and in all modesty, but inspiring and visionary…”
Jean-Pierre Saelen (Former Assistant to Professor Van Acker and
Adjunct Professor Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School)
“Jos, many, if not all, will say, was a gentleman. But he was not just a
gentleman. He also had a very sharp intellect and he was a ‘shaper’. He was a
crucial force in shaping not just his discipline but also the School. I remember
a board meeting, a long time ago, at which everything depended on him. He chose
to put the School first … as we all knew he would.
Jos voiced criticism discretely and in a measured tone. To the outside
world he was loyal and defended policy as decided in common. Jos will be
remembered as one of our founding fathers, one of those who ‘served’ the School
exceedingly well. It is rare that a great man is also gentle, brave, humorous
and generous. Prof Dr Jos Van Acker was one of those.”
Louis Verbeke (Chairman, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management
School)
“Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School in general, and the Marketing
Competence Centre in particular, would not be what they are today were it not
for his passion, energy and dedication. One of the most erudite, he was also one
of the most kind-hearted persons I have ever met.”
Gino Van Ossel (Professor of Marketing, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management
School)
We offer his family our heartfelt sympathy.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire staff of Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School.
Louis-H. Verbeke
Chairman, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School
Philippe Haspeslagh
Dean, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School