Our Head of Sales Food Processing Technology
In this edition of Employee in the Spotlight, we meet Jeroen, our head of sales Food Processing Technology. He has been associated with Van Abeelen for many years and has had a remarkable career path.
From mechanic to entrepreneur and now active on the commercial side of the organization. Time to get to know him better.
What is your morning routine before your workday begins?
“My day starts pretty quietly. First a cup of coffee, then walk the dog. Next, I prepare the lunch boxes for the children. That is a fixed routine before the workday really begins.”
Who are you outside of Van Abeelen?
“I live with my wife Jacqueline and our two children, Anne Sophie and Jan Willem. In my free time, I like to play sports and I go skiing regularly.
In addition, I perform with my band Die Stadlfreunde, which is always fun, of course. I also coach the Boys 1 hockey team. That gives me a lot of energy.
As a person, I am very goal-oriented. When I set my mind to something, I really want to achieve that goal. In doing so, I try to bring the people around me along. Giving up is actually not an option for me.”
Is the role you have now also the role you had earlier in your career?
“No, certainly not. My career started as a mechanic in the workshop. After that, I became a work planner and later a business manager. Subsequently, I served as an interim director twice and eventually became an independent entrepreneur.
In 2017, my company at the time, Unifreezing, was acquired by Van Abeelen. From that moment on, I started focusing more on the commercial side of the work.”
Which moments or projects have stayed with you the most?
“The first joint project after the transition from Unifreezing to Van Abeelen is still fresh in my memory. We sold three spiral freezers with three corresponding refrigeration systems. That was a great start to the collaboration.
In addition, there have of course been more moments. Within our Food team, we are currently making major, positive steps forward. I am truly proud of that.”
