Just to introduce myself…
In each new edition of De Veer we would like to introduce one or two members of the program office. The program office is a group of colleagues who help give form to the new program aimed at long-term employability. Why exactly do they find long-term employability important and what drives them? In this edition we talk to Anton de Weerd.
Anton de Weerd
Functions(s): Director
Years in service: 12,5 years
In your opinion, for whom is Together Strong important? Why?
Together Strong in other words long-term employability is important both for the company and the employee. In our company as well as in our region in particular we have to deal with aging. The work, however, still has to be done. It is important for the Netherlands that we keep our manufacturing industry alive. That means that certain activities have to be carried out. Of course, we are seeing more operators and less physical work. But it is precisely physical work too which remains very important for our industry if we at Marel want to keep playing an important role within the industry. Good health is a blessing and we must try to maintain it as well as finding a good balance between work and home. A safe working environment is also necessary, not just in production but also in the office and on the road. Good relationships between colleagues and between employee and employer are important too, so that you feel at home with us. Marel is also a knowledge organization. To keep this knowledge, we benefit from employees who commit themselves to us for a longer period of time. This means that we as an organization must offer the right challenges and development. These are the prerequisites for being strong together and being able to work on all its aspects.
In your opinion, what role do managers play in Together Strong?
Managers are an important connecting switch between what the company finds important and the deployment of employees. They are the first eyes on the factory floor and the first point of contact for employees. But managers themselves are of course employees too. I am also an employee! It is therefore important for all of us that we work together on our responsibilities, remaining Together Strong both now and in the future. So, as an employee you have your own responsibility in this. As an organization we offer the space and the means. As a manager, you give tailor-made support. In this way we complement one another and the whole becomes stronger.
What does Safe Together do to you personally?
Physical safety is in first place. This is a basic prerequisite for working safely for a good result. Myself, I am not bothered by a lack of social safety. I get over things quickly. However, within Marel I find this a very important theme. We have to get along together so it is better to behave decently towards one another.
What does In Development Together do to you personally?
I am allowed to work for about another eight years. I am happy that my surroundings and advisers still trigger me every day to learn new things and to look at things in new ways.
What does In Balance Together do to you personally?
Being in balance can sometimes be a real challenge, particularly when you have many projects on the go at the same time. This can cause pressure. It is therefore important to take care both yourself and with colleagues not to get overstretched. This is true for me personally. It is then all about making the right choices in good time. Sometimes you just have to say ‘enough is enough’. That’s also possible! It is important to get in touch with your surroundings in time, for example go now to the company doctor instead of going half a year too late. I know a few people who had a burn-out. I would not wish that on anyone. A burn-out leaves its mark.
What does Healthy Together do to you personally?
My wife is still fit. She was once Finnish pentathlon champion. So, she keeps me sharp and under control. Because I am a little on the heavy side, my wife ensures that I get enough exercise each weekend, riding a bike or, when I am in Finland, doing all kinds of heavy work. As far as that is concerned I have a very good coach at my side. But keeping a correct weight is not easy! For sure not if you are on the road a lot! Health is of course about more than just weight. Sleep is also very important. As I appear to need less sleep, I try not to look any more at a computer screen in the evening. The blue light keeps you awake!
Finally: what do you want to give your employees?
Some ten years ago an adviser said to me: “Ton, in your company surely it’s all about earning more and more money?” I didn’t agree. My experience is that the best is when we can offer our employees continuity in their work, that you can challenge them and can inspire your people to grow and to develop themselves. Building together on the themes we have just discussed is for me the best incentive. That is where the energy is.
