Loes Op de Beeck: “My bosses and colleagues listen and support me.”

Meet Loes Op de Beeck , a 27-year-old who balances her love for sports with a passion for creativity. Whether she's hitting the gym or sketching a new masterpiece, Loes brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does. She's been a part of the FirstWave family for three years now, and in that time, she's truly found her home. Here's Loes' story, told in her own words.?

A fresh start?

Let’s start with the beginnings. In 2020 I graduated from KU Leuven and after college, I actually started in IT. Because it’s something completely different from what I do now Waldo often jokes, “Do you remember where we got you from?”. After 10 months in IT, I was ready for a fresh start. That’s when a friend I studied with led me to FirstWave. What struck me right away was how friendly the introductory interview was. It didn’t feel like a cross-examination at all, which can happen at other companies. I felt truly listened to and considered for who I am as a person. And, well, the rest is history! ?

Climbing the career ladder?

I began my journey at FirstWave with a clear goal: to become a CRA. Initially, I started as a CTC at MSD, working in the Late Stage Department. After six months, I felt the need for something new and discussed my desire to move to the Early Stage Department with Els De Backer , Waldo Vervoort and Iwona de Pourbaix . They were incredibly supportive and facilitated the transition.?

Six months into my new role, I expressed my readiness to advance to a CRA position and that’s what I am now. Throughout these three years, Waldo and Iwona have always been attentive to my career aspirations and personal needs. When I felt prepared to take the next step, they didn't hesitate to find a solution.?

Feeling heard and valued is incredibly important to me, and at FirstWave, that's exactly what I get. My bosses and colleagues listen and support me, creating a real sense of belonging. Of course, the job itself must be interesting and motivating, but the people around me are just as important. Whenever I have too much on my plate, there is always someone I can turn to. It's also nice that because FirstWave is a somewhat smaller company, you have direct contact with everyone when you have questions. You’re not just a number.?

This strong sense of support and community extends beyond daily work. In a consultant agency, it’s not always easy to create the team spirit that we have at FirstWave, but Waldo and Iwona have succeeded. The fun events help with that, of course. My favorite memory has to be our trip to Marbella, and it might be one of the most fun experiences of my life.?

“The dinner show at Mamzel’s in Marbella was definitely the highlight of the trip.?Everyone dressed up in their best outfits and we enjoyed an unforgettable evening together.”?

Back to school?

Another fond memory I have is when I got the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion at KU Leuven for students of Biomedical Sciences. During this talk, students could ask questions, and I could share my journey as a young professional. I didn’t take the ‘standard’ path of doing a PhD, which many students in that direction do. It was nice to show students that this isn’t the only way and that you can still end up in a fantastic place like FirstWave. I absolutely loved this experience and hope to do it again next year.?

We’re happy to hear that Loes found her place at FirstWave. Her story is one of growth and adaptability.? At FirstWave, Loes has not only found her professional path but also a place where her sporty, creative spirit can truly thrive. Here’s to many more years of growth and success, Loes!?