Insiders : Marcel Alsemgeest
"You do everything to ensure every project runs successfully."
"Always being available and ready to drive to any project at a moment's notice—that's the key," says project manager Marcel Alsemgeest about his role. In his office, twelve folders surround him, one for each ongoing project. Marcel ensures that these projects are delivered as promised, no matter what. "My car and my phone are sacred."
Back and forth to Bordeaux
"A few weeks ago, something didn’t arrive at a project in Bordeaux due to COVID-19," he recalls. "So, I immediately jumped in my car and drove there with the right materials. I also took the opportunity to do a project inspection. Keeping every project on track is the most important thing for us."
A technician walks in. He needs to replace a broken condensate drain in Germany. "I got the report an hour ago, and now someone is already on the way to fix it. No fuss, just done."
Every day is different
Delivering plans, checking on transport, thoroughly cleaning machines after each job, and solving problems if necessary—this all makes for a fascinating schedule. One day it's a meeting at the head office in Maasdijk. Another day it's a meeting in Belgium, and in the same week, starting up teams in Nantes and Mönchengladbach. For Marcel, it’s all part of the routine. "I never know at the beginning of the week where I'll have been by the end," he says with a chuckle.
Every project runs smoothly, no matter what
"It’s very simple," he continues. "The subcontractor should never be the one to suffer. At Alweco, we're always ready to ensure the teams can keep working."
A job like this is only possible if you have a healthy and stable foundation. "Yes, things are good at home," he says with a cheerful expression. "There’s peace and balance. On Saturday mornings, I might still be here doing a bit of work in the hall, but in the afternoon and on Sundays, I enjoy being at home. My children usually come to visit, which is always nice. And I’m in bed by half-past nine; otherwise, you won’t last."
Marcel stands up. "I have to head out again." South of France? East Germany? Czech Republic? Where is the site manager off to now to ensure all Alweco projects continue running like well-oiled machines? "Oh, just a quick trip to Honselersdijk to pick something up," Marcel says with a laugh.
And off he goes again, one of the driving forces behind Alweco's success. Always available, always ready to drive for you.