‘The story behind the numbers’

MT and CO2

Merel, born in Arnhem, ended up in the south of the Netherlands because of her studies. Following her master’s degree in Business Intelligence and Smart Services she stayed in Limburg and started her career at Euramax. Merel reflects: ‘I worked at different departments, where I always focused on the (data) analytical part. Meanwhile I work as the Business Controller’s right-hand woman at the Finance & Control department.’ Merel’s main job is to support the MT in their reports. ‘This includes the process improvement that can be implemented throughout the company,’ she explains. ‘Lately, the ESG report has been top priority. This is a key focus from an EU law perspective, but also from the intrinsic motivation we have at Euramax to help build a circular economy. Our goal is to be able to provide the carbon footprint on our invoices by the end of the year.’

‘Whenever I see a caravan on the road, I always proudly say its one of ours!’

From a greenhorn to a professional with green ambitions

Merel’s thrilled to be making a big impact at Euramax, helping turn sustainable ambitions into reality. ‘Aluminium is a green metal by nature that can be endlessly recycled. Plus, we’re taking steps with our suppliers to use more and more recycled materials.’ Merel uses her expertise to make the process even more sustainable: ‘I analysed the energy and gas usage of the production lines to check what influences it and how we can act on this.’ Seeing the results of this analysis translated into improvements in practice, is a milestone for Merel. She also sees the result of her work when she passes a caravan on her way home. ‘Chances are that it came from us.’ And she’s more than happy to let everyone around her know. By now, her social circle knows exactly what’s coming when Merel excitedly exclaims, “That’s one of ours!”

Merel is on your side

Merel gets a huge kick out of her analysis results confirming her hypothesis. Or as she puts it: ‘When my formula works.’ But those who think that this analyst is a true data purist, are mistaken. ‘I don’t want to just collect and analyse the figures, the story behind the numbers is at least as important.’ To get to the bottom of that story, she regularly checks in with her colleagues at various departments and in different job positions. For Merel, ‘on your side’ is all about building connections with colleagues, management, and customers. ‘When I worked in Sales, I collaborated with customers on some major projects. That’s a prime example of how you can go the extra mile.’ Looking ahead, she sees plenty of opportunities to stay on your side. ‘Being able to get a peek behind the curtain in so many areas at Euramax enables me to spot new challenges that I’m more than happy to take on. In doing so, I keep focussing on how we can keep optimising for our customer’ That way Merel is and remains on your side.