Who is Sjors?

I am 41 years old and live in Heerenveen, together with my wife, our one-month-old daughter, and dog Moos – a two-year-old Belgian Shepherd. Sport has always played a major role in my life. I played korfball at the highest level for years and became Dutch, European, and world champion with my club. Nowadays, I enjoy playing padel. I still bring that top sports mentality to my work.

How does that mentality help you in your work?

You learn to deal with pressure and let go of non-essentials. If a customer is panicking, I say: take a step back first. Don’t immediately start turning all the knobs, but calmly see what’s going on. That level-headedness helps me and the customer. They get an honest answer from me. I don’t beat around the bush: it is what it is.

Have you experienced Gemba paying attention to the person behind the employee?

Yes, definitely. I was out of action for almost a year due to a concussion and was given every opportunity to recover. Of course, the numbers count, but it’s important that you’re okay. That says it all.

What makes your work enjoyable?

For me, it’s the combination of technology and people. I am technically skilled, but I also speak the language of the user. If someone asks for an extra button that saves time, I immediately think about the consequences under the hood. I explain that in plain language and together we look for the best solution. This creates understanding and trust.

Can you give an example of a solution you are proud of?

At VMI, people in, for example, Poland and China also have to fill in forms in English. Their English is not always that good. I have created a solution that automatically translates texts via a kind of Google Translate link. It was simple for me, but it makes a world of difference to them. I like things like that: I get happy when the customer really benefits from it.

How would you describe the culture at Gemba?

Relaxed and collegial. Everyone is good at something and you always know who to turn to. Whether it’s a colleague or the director: you just pick up the phone. Everyone is there for each other, even outside of working hours. That makes Gemba unique.

What are highlights outside of work?

The Gemba weekends! I thought the anniversary weekend in Seville was fantastic. We were with the whole club in a hotel with a roof terrace and swimming pool. Walking through the city in the evening, enjoying good food everywhere… You see colleagues in a very different way then, which makes it special.

How do you see the future?

I enjoy my work as it is. My biggest dream is private: moving to Sweden with my family. Buying a house there, living mortgage-free, and especially enjoying the freedom. Working for your bread and butter, not for your house. That would be great. The best thing would be if I could continue to do my work for Gemba from there.