From DEKRA Automotive to Marketing & Communication: “A new challenge within a familiar environment”
June 1 2022 was an important day: after 21 years of DEKRA Automotive, Lian made the move to the Marketing & Communication department of DEKRA Netherlands. “If you work somewhere for a long time, it might come across as if you have no ambition,” she says. But the opposite is true: Lian is full of ambition! The growth opportunities within DEKRA are a reason for her to stay.
As a 19-year-old I found out that studying English didn't quite suit me. And when the Oriental Languages & Communication study was also cancelled, I started working at DEKRA Automotive. The plan was to do this work only in the summer, while I looked for another study. When I started my summer job, I couldn't predict that I would stay 21 years. But when something feels right, you don't say goodbye to it! I've been working for DEKRA for 21 years and I've been dating Melvin for 21 years. That also shows how loyal and determined I am when something feels right.
"When I started my summer job, I couldn't predict that I would stay 21 years."
In a few years’ time, I worked for the Service Desk, Planning, Investigations and Inspections. In 2011 I became the executive secretary to our current Country Manager Paul Schenk, and later also to Richard Overeem, director at DEKRA Claims & Expertise. Paul Schenk works at DEKRA 3 months longer than I do. In 2001 he was manager internal and external service. I am the first person he ever offered a permanent contract within DEKRA and I'm still here! Since May this year I joined the Marketing and Communications Team in Arnhem. That means that, with a big detour, I can still focus on language and communication. Something that has interested me from the start.
"I enjoy learning new things."
What role does ambition play in my work? I enjoy learning new things. And I take responsibility for making that happen. For example, do I hear about a training I want to participate in? Then I'll go after it myself. That is how I always took steps at DEKRA, even when I worked part-time and was a mother of young children.
"If you show commitment and ambition, you can grow to a place that suits you."
Now that the kids are a bit older, I have more room in my head to think about bigger steps. Where are my ambitions? What do I like? And what is possible within DEKRA? I never thought I could start in a marketing department without marketing experience. But, if you show commitment and ambition, you can grow to a place that suits you. I have the ambition to fulfill my role well within the team. And to possibly further specialize in the future.
"I like to take steps within DEKRA, because I know that you will end up in the right place."
I like to take steps within DEKRA, because I know that you will end up in the right place. Even when you do something new. At DEKRA, you get the time and space to learn. This function is a new challenge within a familiar environment. Because I work for DEKRA Netherlands, I now work together with all branches in our country. As a result, I do not have to say goodbye to my colleagues at Claims & Expertise. That is definitely a plus!
"My tip for colleagues? Don't forget that DEKRA is a large organization with many opportunities."
At DEKRA you are heard and seen. Are you flexible yourself? Do you dare to express your expectations and ideas? And do you dare to go for them? Then a lot is possible at DEKRA. Even if it is not literally stated in your job description, more is possible in consultation than you think. In addition, do not forget that DEKRA is a large company with many opportunities. Believe in yourself and sometimes try to look beyond the department you work for. Or even the location where you work.
My name is Lian Joseph-Römer. I am 40 years young and I live in Heerhugowaard, close to our DEKRA office in Alkmaar. I've been with Melvin for 21 years. We have a 15-year-old daughter Elisa and a 12-year-old son Ferron. I would describe myself as energetic, creative, helpful, spontaneous and I like humor in and outside the workplace. In my free time I like to cook, watch football and watch Formula 1 on TV. And I enjoy fun city trips with my family and friends.