Connection coming from a deep understanding
During the first few years, Harmen fully immersed himself in Euramax. ‘I really got to know the company, the processes, and the people. It’s from that deep understanding that I seek the connection with our customers. How can we be on your side as well as possible? What should we continue to do for that and what should we change?’ Sometimes this requires clear choices. The coating line in England was shut down, more investments are being made in Roermond, and over the past year, we’ve expanded to America. ‘We’re great at coating, but so are others. What sets us apart is the wealth of knowledge and pride we have at Euramax. That’s how we deliver the finest product, paired with the best service. The way our technology and service blend together seamlessly reflects our on your side mindset.’
A jigsaw puzzle of a million parts
‘I see Euramax as an incredibly interesting jigsaw puzzle of a million parts,’ Harmen says. ‘A puzzle I try to piece together with our team. In order to do so, we need each other and for that we have to examine and enter the world of our customers. It makes me feel like a journalist looking for connections.’ Not every potential customer is immediately enthusiastic. ‘But as soon as I show up with our samples, a valuable conversation always follows. I enjoy constantly seeking that connection with people, hearing their stories and challenges, and from there, piecing the puzzle together.’
‘I may not be from around here, but I’m definitely one of Euramax’
Complete commitment
After studying Business Economics – ‘I had a way with figures and an entrepreneurial mindset’- Harmen started at AkzoNobel. There, he was able to learn a lot and at some point, he got into contact with Euramax. ‘After a pleasant collaboration it led to an offer.’ His first response: ‘All the way to Limburg?’ Followed immediately by: ‘At Euramax I can build something beautiful.’ He saw a lot of things that went well, but also a lot of things that could be done differently. ‘You have to do it together. But first I had to win the trust of the Euramaxers, show them that I’m not just a passerby.’ That his complete commitment is with Euramax, soon was no longer doubted. He proudly says: ‘I may not be from around here, but I’m definitely one of Euramax.’
The circular power of aluminium
As Harmen looks ahead, he has a clear goal in mind with Euramax: ‘It’s my dream to have our production consist entirely of recycled content. So that, together with our suppliers and customers, we can build a circular future.’ Something that’s much needed, Harmen thinks. ‘The amount of plastic you notice around you, also when on holiday, is overwhelming. From packages to caravans.’ Another way Harmen wants to be on your side with Euramax: ‘In the short term, we give our customers what they need: good quality and service. In the long term there’s the choice between aluminium and GRP. With aluminium you know that ever more recycled material is being used, which requires much less energy and is endlessly recyclable, too. ‘ Only when Euramax produces in a fully circular way and also serves its customers with this, will the puzzle really be complete for Harmen. How many of those million parts have now been put in place? ‘I think we’re halfway there. So let’s keep puzzling away!’