The fun ride of the last 1 year and 9 months is coming to an end.
Working at the Chamber has been such a learning experience. So many skills are developed here and in such a healthy way. I was given plenty of responsibility and room to grow, make mistakes, experiment, and learn. Attending the International Forum 2024 was just a small preview of what my experience would be like.
It’s no coincidence that many former team members call Marjon the best manager they’ve ever had or say they’ll miss her deeply. It’s because it’s true. The healthy environment of this workplace should serve as an example to many others. Beyond being a fantastic professional, Marjon truly cares about everyone around her.
I especially treasure the incredible events held in extraordinary places (from tugboats to the Parliament) and the variety of projects I’ve been part of. From a recent trip to northern Portugal to showcase Portuguese metalworking players to a Dutch client, to multiple sessions with startups in our vibrant ecosystem, to visits to healthcare units alongside groups of Dutch students — variety is endless, and I loved every bit of it. Over these past (almost) two years, I’ve had the chance to meet some amazing entrepreneurs from all kinds of sectors. It feels really good to know we’ve helped — even just a little — in supporting their growth and ideas.
Here I learned about straightforwardness (which at first comes across as Dutch rudeness) and about really listening to the requests of our members and clients. Later, the magic happens: people are connected by us, they start working together, form companies, close deals, or even become really good friends. And that’s what I am proud of—the direct involvement I was able to have while holding this role.
So I must thank Marjon for taking the risk with me two years ago, for coaching me, for all the great chats we had, and for her sense of humour. To Martelle, all the other team and Board members, and to the whole network, thank you for taking such good care of me. It was great, and I will miss it.
Now I’m heading to Geneva for a new personal chapter, but I’ll miss this place dearly. Who knows? Maybe I’ll be back someday, as a member or in another role! If that happens, I promise I’ll practice my Dutch.
Take care!
António Varela Cid