With sadness, we have learned of the passing of Professor Emeritus Hans Gortemaker on 10 January 2026. He died at the age of 77.
With the death of Hans Gortemaker, Erasmus University Rotterdam has lost a professor who, for more than three decades, was of great significance to education and to the development of the accounting profession. From 1990 onwards, Hans Gortemaker was part of the academic community, most recently serving as Professor of Accountancy at Erasmus School of Economics, a role he fulfilled with great dedication until his retirement in 2013.
Gortemaker combined his professorship with his work at PwC, where he led the accounting profession in the Netherlands and subsequently the European accounting practice. In that capacity, he was a member of the global governing board of PwC Accountants.
Even after stepping down as a partner at PwC in 2005, he continued to devote himself to the university with undiminished enthusiasm. For several years, he served as Director of the Erasmus School of Accounting & Assurance, as well as of the Department of Business Economics at Erasmus School of Economics. In 2016, on the day of his valedictory lecture, Hans received the university’s centennial medal as a token of appreciation for his services.
Hans is remembered as a passionate lecturer and colleague, who was able to connect his extensive practical experience with academic depth. He attached great importance to the societal role of the accountant and consistently conveyed this perspective to generations of students.
We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Hans, wishing them strength and comfort in this difficult time. On behalf of the management team of Erasmus School of Economics,
Dean Prof. Patrick Groenen
