Next generation work
Aquafin: a strategic partnership for sustainable employability and late-career development
Antwerp Management School and Aquafin collaborate in a strategic knowledge partnership that combines scientific insights with practical experience to strengthen employability and workable work, with a particular focus on late-career development and the specific needs of employees aged 55 and over.
Insight as a foundation for sustainable career policy
To address this challenge strategically, Aquafin is committed to understanding not only symptoms but also the underlying mechanisms.
That is why AMS and Aquafin deliberately opt for an evidence-based approach, combining academic insights with the experiences of employees, managers, and other stakeholders.
In collaboration with the Competence Center Next Generation Work, the topic of late careers is explored in a broad and in-depth manner. This knowledge partnership supports Aquafin in developing and implementing strategies for a sustainable late-career policy.
“The real challenge is not when people stop working, but how we continue to leverage their experience and motivation in a way that remains valuable for both themselves and the organization.”
— Sofie Jacobs, Associate Professor Sustainable Career Development, Academic Director Global Leadership Program
A knowledge-driven and scientifically grounded approach
This project offers Aquafin an integrated approach to strengthening sustainable careers.
By linking academic frameworks on sustainable careers, workable work, dialogue, and late-career intentions with organizational insights, a deep understanding emerges of what employees truly need.
The results are translated into practical guidelines, tools, and recommendations that enable Aquafin to take targeted action in the years ahead.
Research based on data, dialogue, and literature
The project combines quantitative and qualitative research to develop a comprehensive view of the late-career phase.
Focus groups are organized to analyze both the breadth and depth of this phase, providing insights into employees’ experiences, needs, and expectations.
In addition, stakeholder sparring sessions take place and relevant scientific literature is thoroughly explored.
“The end of a career is not an endpoint, but a phase in which smart and sustainable choices are crucial.”
— Peggy De Prins, PhD, Academic Director Master in People & Change Management & Senior Researcher Next Generation Work
The recipe for a sustainable late career
As a starting point, a snapshot of the current situation is developed, providing insight into employability and workable work during the late-career phase.
The project results in an evidence-based “career recipe book.” Based on this analysis, the different components of sustainable late careers are brought together.
This recipe book offers concrete guidance for employees, managers, and HR to shape the final years of a career in a sustainable, healthy, and motivating way.
In addition, insights are shared with the broader Aquafin community and, where relevant, with external stakeholders, ensuring the partnership generates wider societal impact.
In this way, the project contributes to a forward-looking and sustainable HR approach that places employability, workable work, and well-being at its core.
Partners
Relevante publicaties
De laatste indruk telt meer dan je denkt, Over de vloer - De Tijd
Wat het afscheid van Dries Mertens ons leert in het pensioendebat - De Tijd
Doorbreek het 'Joe Biden-taboe', Over de vloer - De Tijd
“Mentorschap werkt, maar niet vanzelf en zeker niet altijd” - HR Square
Blog: Langer werken? Zo maak je van leeftijd een troef op de werkvloer
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