What is your role at VPD?
Robin Alsteens: “When I was a student worker, I performed various tasks. Initially, I worked in the warehouse, stacking empty crates, sweeping, and assisting with order preparation. When I reached 18, I was allowed to accompany truck drivers to assist them during deliveries. In the last couple of years, I've mostly been doing customer service. Then, in September last year, I got a job as a full-time project manager. That means I get to work on different projects, like checking or enhancing processes, and helping out the account manager too.”
FAST COMMUNICATION CHANNELS
What do you like about your role? Why do you enjoy your work so much?
Robin Alsteens: "I enjoy being able to do a bit of everything; that's what I appreciate about my job. My role allows me to learn a lot while still being operational for VPD. I also appreciate being entrusted with responsibilities to successfully complete projects. Here, I'm not just a number. In other large companies, you are part of a specific team and have no contact with other departments. At VPD, communication channels are fast. Whenever I have questions or require help, I can easily contact the CEO, account managers, the planning manager, or someone from the back office. There's always someone available to assist me when I'm facing challenges. We collaborate as a team to deliver top-notch service, and it's a highly effective setup that also offers me a wealth of learning opportunities."
Do you receive enough professional development opportunities?
Robin Alsteens: "Absolutely. Having fast communication channels certainly contributes to that. I've been in the project manager role for a year, and it's given me a fantastic chance to broaden my understanding. I also make it a point to pick up something fresh every day."
FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES
Why did you choose to work for VPD, even though you completed law studies?
Robin Alsteens: “When I worked at VPD as a student, I saw that it was a very pleasant company with a good working atmosphere. After my law studies, I realised that I didn’t want to continue down that path. The logical next step would have been doing an internship at a law firm and pass the bar, but I no longer felt comfortable with that prospect. I graduated, and VPD offered me a great opportunity, which I seized. I will see how things evolve.”
Do you have a funny anecdote about your work?
Robin Alsteens: "Nothing really specific. But as I mentioned, the atmosphere in the workplace is excellent. It's nice to know, for example, that a driver who comes to the office still remembers me from when I accompanied them during deliveries as a student. It's very rewarding to know that they haven't forgotten about me (smiles). For instance, a few months ago, the Backoffice team organised a team-building day and invited me to join their paintball activity. I often worked in that department during my studies and still occasionally visit if needed. It's very nice to receive that recognition."
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Robin Alsteens: "I really like sports, as a fan but also as a participant. I like watching games with my friends, and I also enjoy futsal, weightlifting, or running, depending on how I feel. During the weekends, my social life is pretty active too, and I like going out for drinks with my friends or spending quality time with my girlfriend."
Do you have any advice for VPD? What could VPD improve?
Robin Alsteens: "The fast communication channels are a very positive thing at VPD, but every advantage also has its downside. Sometimes, not everyone is aware of certain things or procedures. In the logistics world, quick action is always required. We have established routines for situations when a delivery can't go as planned. We often face situations demanding quick decisions, and not everyone has all the info needed, leading to disagreements. So, when it comes to communication, there's definitely room for improvement, and I'm actively working on that."
How do you see the future?
Robin Alsteens: "I feel good where I am today. For me, the most important thing right now is professional growth. I learn every day how VPD works, how the business world operates. When I feel that I'm no longer learning enough, we'll have to see what other roles I can take on at VPD because I want to continue progressing."