Christel Tijskens’ ambition

Your job title sounds exciting and innovative – what exactly does it entail?

"Together with my colleagues, I manage a range of administrative duties for our department across different branches. Our tasks, always related to technology and innovation within the QHSE domain, include creating PowerPoint presentations, organising training sessions, producing safety videos, developing instructional materials and posters, setting up training venues, and distributing invitations. Additionally, we monitor communications in the mailbox, track tender submissions, and compile monthly data for management reports. We report to Carla Wellens and Sophie Kreydt."

How do you make a difference, together with your colleagues?

Everything has to be correct, so we are committed to responding quickly to anything that comes up. We see our clients as customers and we want to keep everyone happy. This involves promptly addressing tasks and prioritising them effectively. As dedicated team players, we readily support one another. We excel in follow-up, sending reminders, and persisting until the job is done. We understand everyone is busy, but a friendly call can make all the difference. That’s how we are achieving results."

What do you like most about your job and Smulders?

 "The variety, freedom, flexibility and appreciation. If a task sometimes seems more difficult, my motto is: try first, then ask for help. Creating dashboards and presentations allows me the freedom to decide my approach to tasks. Whenever I am stuck, collaborating with team members and clients drives me forward. It is ‘give and take’ and that’s how I strive for success and efficiency. I really enjoy working here, in May exactly five years."

Congratulations in advance, and what will the future bring?

"Preferably working at Smulders until I retire. That was already my ambition when I started. Meanwhile, I have passed on the Smulders vibe to my husband who has started working at Willems in Balen this year. Well, what’s in the heart, comes out the mouth, also in your private life. Both my job and my family are my passion. This all fits together smoothly, we've got a good system in place, allowing ample time for walking, holidays, and rowing on my indoor machine. For the rowing, I get up at 4:40 every morning. It builds my resilience and fosters a positive mindset, which I then bring back to my work at Smulders. You see, everything has come full circle.”