HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht selects iO as strategic partner for integrated performance marketing ​ 

HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (HU) has entered into a strategic partnership with leading digital agency iO to further strengthen the university's visibility and positioning. ​
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With 37,000 students across Utrecht and Amersfoort, HU is investing in integrated performance marketing to achieve its objectives across three key areas:

  • Brand positioning: raising awareness of HU as an educational institution, research institute and collaborative partner;
  • Student recruitment: campaigns (SEA, Display, Social and SEO) for both initial and continuing education programmes;
  • Employer branding: positioning HU as an attractive employer for academic staff and support services.

iO will manage the complete online marketing mix: from online campaigns across social media and Google, SEO, and data analysis and dashboarding to brand positioning for both the Dutch and international markets.

HU: "A partner that thinks beyond campaigns"

"The tender was awarded to iO based on a strong and compelling presentation. Together, we're taking the next step in further developing our media strategy," says Wim van der Pol, Director of Marketing & Communications at HU.

iO: "Educational marketing with impact"

"By optimising HU's digital marketing, we're helping the university continue to effectively reach students and prospective students, despite the national decline in student numbers," says Viola van der Linden, Industry Lead Education at iO Netherlands. "We're also focusing on increasing HU's visibility as an attractive employer and attracting new collaborative partners."

Results-driven approach

HU and iO will gather data-driven insights about target audiences and campaign performance. iO will focus strongly on measurable results: increased reach, quality website traffic and conversion optimisation. By mapping customer journeys and touchpoints for each target group, they aim to continuously improve the approach. This will enable HU to better align its marketing with its target audiences.


About HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
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​With approximately 37,000 students and professionals, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (Hogeschool Utrecht or HU) is a leading university in the Utrecht region. It offers a broad range of practice-oriented bachelor's and master's programmes, associate degrees and part-time courses. HU combines education, applied research and collaboration with partners to develop solutions for societal challenges in sustainability, health, education and digitalisation. ​
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​HU is located at Utrecht Science Park, alongside Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht and RIVM, among others. This unique location promotes intensive collaboration and knowledge exchange, enabling HU to actively contribute to a healthy and sustainable society. www.hu.nl
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About iO

iO is one of Europe's leading digital agencies and home of ambitious people, organisations and brands.

Since 2005, we deliver marketing that performs, content that connects, and platforms that scale - all seamlessly integrated across data, media, AI, infrastructure and digital operations.

With more than 2,000 experts across 12 campuses in Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, and Bulgaria, we help brands such as Audi, Brussels Airport, Efteling, Lidl, Philips, and AkzoNobel to transform their digital experiences. iodigital.com


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