What has your career been like so far?
My name is Jeffrey, and for nearly three years, I have been working as an Industrial Engineer & Data Scientist at Nobleo Manufacturing in Eindhoven.

My journey in Industrial Engineering began with a bachelor’s degree after which I finished my master’s degree in Operations Management and Logistics. Between my bachelor’s and my master’s, I took the opportunity to do a board year at UniPartners, an Academic Consultancy firm run by students. This experience allowed me to gain real-world exposure and improve my people skills and problem-solving skills.

I started working At Nobleo Manufacturing as a junior consultant where I have had the opportunity to apply my academic background in Industrial Engineering and leverage data-driven solutions to address operational challenges in the field of automotive and high-tech industries. The clients I worked for include names in the Automotive and High-tech industries, such as Volvo, DAF, ASML, VDL, Van Wijnen, and Schleifenbauer. Over time, I progressed within the company, assuming the role of Program Manager for our “Audit & Improve” program line, where I focus on building a program line that can support a structured approach to process optimization.

I have been involved in diverse projects that have made a significant impact on our clients:
• At Volvo, we optimized the logistic flow of one of their battery factories by simulating their operations using cutting-edge simulation tools
• At ASML, we provided crucial support to one of their customers in managing a complex and challenging supply chain, enhancing productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness
• At Van Wijnen, we successfully simulated a complex production facility for concrete elements. This simulation allowed us to propose optimized facility layouts and process improvements.

Which course would you add to the IE curriculum to setup students for success?
“Strategic Business Practicum”: This dynamic Operations Management and Logistics course provides hands-on experience bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world business challenges. Through practical projects, students learn to apply their expertise to solve complex problems, gaining invaluable skills and understanding the practical added value they can offer in the competitive business landscape.

Where do you get the most energy from during and after your work?
My work thrives on energizing and convincing clients by identifying their challenges and proposing effective solutions. I enjoy collaborating with Nobleo Manufacturing’s multi-functional team to implement these solutions, creating positive outcomes and impactful results.

How does your background in Industrial Engineering help you in your work?
My background in Industrial Engineering equips me with essential skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and process optimization. These capabilities are instrumental in my current role as an Industrial Engineer & Data Scientist. With a strong foundation in operations management and logistics, I can effectively translate business challenges into data-driven solutions. This expertise enables me to enhance productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, contributing to the success of projects and the overall performance of our clients.

What advice would you give current students?
Embrace the opportunities to gain real-world experience early in your studies. Engaging in internships or practical projects bridges theory with practice, honing your skills and understanding industry demands and your demands😉. This invaluable experience will help you to shape your future career, providing a competitive edge to make a meaningful impact early in your career and to understand where your ambitions lie.

You can change a question, which one would you change and why?

Old question:
How does your background in Industrial Engineering help you in your work?

New question:
How did a specific project or experience during your career showcase the practical added value of your theoretical knowledge in a real-world business context?

Why:
The question invites the person to share a success story where they were able to leverage their expertise to make a meaningful impact.

What has your career been like so far?
In 2006 I started my career in vendor managed inventory systems, at that time still figuring out whether I would become a supply chain professional or not. I however quickly realized that working in complex technical environments fascinated me more.
After 1,5 years I joined MaxGrip, a consultancy company in Maintenance (or Asset Performance) Management. This for sure brought me in areas I had not encountered during my studies, I knew nothing about pumps, electric motors, piping classes, inspection strategies or failure modes. Luckily, I did know something about statistics and simulation models which helped a lot! During my employment at MaxGrip I had the opportunity to work with many different cultures in different industries, but always as part of a project team.
In 2015 I joined DSM with the ambition to develop as a line manager, first as maintenance manager of the Dyneema factory, later as production and plant manager of the yeast extract plant in Delft. In DSM I learned a lot about (safety) culture, leadership and operations management, this brings me where I am today, plant manager at Agristo. I am the plant manager of the Tilburg production facility where we produce, package and store frozen fries with approximately 250 colleagues.

What makes you happy in your work?
Experimenting and (personal) growth! Seeing teams and team members doing things that they didn’t do before brings a smile to my face. We can only achieve our goals if we are willing to learn, experiment and improve, and this applies to everyone, regardless of the position in the organization.

What was the most important moment in your career and why?
I’m not sure whether there was one single most important moment, looking back every project or position offered many learning opportunities. But to name one I think I will never forget the impact of good leadership. I once had a manager from whom I really felt the trust to act where I thought it was needed. On the other hand he could also be straightforward and reflect on the areas where I could still grow. To be honest this mirror did not always show a pretty face, but I never felt judgement or lack of trust. I have had the luck to have worked with a few of these leaders, they are still an inspiration for my work today.

Generation ‘Z’ is joining the workforce. They are digital natives and it is said they approach work differently and strive for meaningful work and push for sustainability. How do you think will Gen Z change your work?
At some point everyone realizes a new generation is coming, and of course every new generation comes with new values, habits and beliefs. So, to answer your question: I do recognize the strive for sustainability, meaningful word and work/life balance as well with my younger colleagues. Although sometimes it’s nice to be able to generalize and put a stamp on something we don’t fully understand, like “gen Z”, I think it is of greater value to recognize the changes and explore how we can adapt and collaborate. For example I hope the greener mindset will stay and although traditional business (like manufacturing) are not ready yet for the longer parenting leaves, I fully support this despite all the challenges!

Which function/job did you dream of while being a student, and how and why did that change over time?
I’m not sure whether I had a specific dream job when I was a student, I however have always been fascinated by large industrial complexes and the challenges that come with operating and maintaining these. Over time that fascination proved to be a driver in career choices, next to the ambition to keep growing in leadership.

You can change a question, which one would you change and why?

Old question:
Which function/job did you dream of while being a student, and how and why did that change over time?

New question:
What (professional) dreams do you have for the future?

Why:
Stop dreaming about what could have been, start dreaming about your next step or that shiny place on the horizon!