Inspiration
Looking back and looking forward: Reflections from our team
For JBR, the year 2024 was marked by our 40th anniversary: 40 years and beyond. It was a year in which we not only reflected on our past, but above all looked to the future.
In this article, a number of colleagues share their personal milestones, inspirations and prospects for 2025. Together, we celebrate successes and continue to build a strong future.
Dare to dream
Brigitte Huisman: "Have guts, make your life unforgettable and dare to think outside the box. This mindset has helped me discover new opportunities."
Proud of cooperation
Harold Brummelhuis: "I am proud of the three deals for French companies that I did with my team. Learning to interact with French CEOs, paying attention to French culture, was a valuable experience. Organizing a good lunch or dinner helped buying and selling parties get to know each other."
Celebrating connection
Karen-An Klaucke: "The staff outing celebrating our 40th anniversary was a true highligh. The connection between our people and the organization was impressive."
Energy from young colleagues
Harm Tunteler: "I am regularly in the office for appointments and to work. What strikes me is the energy of the young people. I enjoy seeing them working hard, but also having fun together."
Outside the comfort zone
Caspar van de Geest: "Ray Claassen's book Growth Pain has inspired me to think outside my comfort zone and persevere. This year was commercially successful and also brought us valuable insights."
Strategy and vision
Iemke Imhof: "The strategy day made a big impression on me. The question of whether JBR will still exist in 10 years and how, brought out wonderful visions of our young consultants. I am proud of the ideas of just this group."
Unforgettable journey
Tom de Haan: "I was on a month-long trip to Colombia and Guatemala last year. The nature, the hikes and an active volcano were incredibly impressive. When you take a trip like that it permanently broadens your horizons."
Family happiness and health
Daan Steenbergen: "I will become a grandfather in June, which I am greatly looking forward to. In addition, I have been declared healthy after heart surgery last year. The JBR Governance IDFA Event, with talks on dilemmas of participation commissioners, was another highlight."
Learning from each other
Levi Schuurman: "We always work as a team at JBR. I learn a lot from Rick and Thomas, who often come up with surprising creative solutions. The trust in the team is high, and we really learn from each other."
Collaborating with impact
Rick ter Maat: "In 2024, we again worked with exceptional clients on complex and long-term projects. One example is a project that took almost 1.5 years from deal origination to closing. Thanks to the persistence and perseverance of our team, we were able to successfully complete this project. It is a great confirmation of how cooperation and determination lead to tangible results that really make a difference for our clients."
Perseverance as inspiration
Rutger Beelen: "Sifan Hassan has inspired me tremendously this year. Her perseverance during the Olympics, especially her final sprint in the marathon, touched me and motivates me personally. The athlete completed a unique trilogy in Olympic history with her third medal. I admire her tremendous perseverance."
Elegance and atmosphere
Heske van Eyck van Heslinga: "The wedding of friends in Italy was a dream. Everything, from the low tables in the garden to the tuxedo and dresses, was atmospheric and elegant."
Learning and connecting
Sonja Welbergen: "Learning and development were my focus this year. I am going to take a course for HR Manager. Being with my family and connecting with colleagues were also valuable moments."
Valuable scholarships
Ronald van Rijn: "In 2024, we participated in three trade fairs with a booth: Dubai, Antwerp and Amsterdam. These events were not only a platform for our knowledge sectors, but also a symbol of connection between people and ideas. It was an inspiring experience to speak to visitors and see how our work makes an impact. These meetings highlight the power of knowledge and collaboration in a world that is constantly changing."
Value of health
Frank Steenhuisen: "I regularly visit a good friend with Alzheimer's. It reminds me how important health is, both physically and mentally."
Festive moments
Gracia Salamat: "During staff outing in honor of JBR's 40th anniversary, we took a disco boat ride on the Meuse River. It was fantastic. We had so much laughter and fun!"
Showing commitment
Jelmer Haites: "During the gala of the KNMR, our table spontaneously decided on the spot to sponsor a rescue suit. It was special to take action so directly and spontaneously. A survival suit is life-saving: it protects against hypothermia and provides buoyancy if a rescuer goes overboard. We tried on a suit ourselves, which made the experience all the more impressive."
Looking ahead to 2025
With these reflections, we close 2024. We look forward to a new year full of challenges, growth and successes. Together, we will make a difference. In 2025, we will continue to expand our innovations in consultancy. Here's to a wonderful 2025!