Do Something Meaningful – 5 years and counting

Today, 5 years ago, we had just relocated from Asia, kids had started in their new school, and I started my first day at DSM. Driving to the headquarters in Heerlen, I had no idea what to expect and I could have never imagined the journey that was about to unfold. Since that car ride, I...

• Met a new best friend: the cow (according to my kids), and learned a lot about this amazing animal and how she converts feed in the nutritious foods we grew up with and enjoy every day
• Visited a number of new countries and appreciated the warmth and welcoming open doors from so many colleagues... I truly miss this aspect of the job during the lock-down
• Aired on tv and radio shows, was interviewed in podcasts, and quoted in print media... my Google search findings increased from 1-2 mentions to several pages
• Led (and still leading today) a number of breakthrough innovation projects towards commercialization on topics which are changing the world such as fighting climate change and boosting your immunity
• Filed my first patent...this gained me a few brownie points with the kids, dad is no longer a manager, now he is an inventor
• Learned why my family, friends, and I should care about nutrition, and in particular Vitamin D when it comes to boosting your immunity
• Was inspired by so many who want to make a difference when it comes to sustainability: from entrepreneurs, to ministers, to academics, to innovators, to CEOs, and NGOs. With this many likeminded people we must be able to make progress…now let’s do so in a timely manner

Taking a step back, and reflecting on the past 5 years, I’m amazed about what this journey has all brought. It was one with deep troughs, steep learning curves, and some amazing highs, and many memories and friendships that will last a life time. This would not have been possible without the innovative purpose-led performance-driven portfolio of DSM, the drive to make a positive impact on the planet and trust of many colleagues and the support of my family along the way. THANK YOU

P.S. Energized and curious what the next years will bring