Grow through Impact
Employee stories
Meet Ruben - Project Coordinator at Normec Kalsbeek
Ruben’s experience joining a motivated and mission-driven team
Ruben Mekkering joined Normec Kalsbeek in September 2025 as Project Coordinator. What drew him to Normec was the strong sense of energy and momentum within the organisation, combined with the opportunity to grow internally. During his application process, he spoke to several colleagues who all confirmed how enjoyable it is to work at Normec. From the start, he felt welcomed and motivated to contribute.
Feeling welcome from day one
Today, Ruben recognises his motivation to join Normec in practice: “Our team spars actively and learns from one another. In a sector that is constantly evolving and has a high societal relevance, that exchange is incredibly valuable.”
What makes Normec stand out for Ruben is the openness and room to show initiative. “From day one I was welcomed with open arms. I could ask anyone anything, and colleagues genuinely wanted to help. You can take part in employee initiatives straight away, such as a working group on employee engagement, and people are really interested in getting to know you.”
Ruben is particularly proud of the role he plays together with his colleagues in improving water safety across the Netherlands; an important but often underexposed aspect of healthy living.
Contributing together to make a difference
When asked to share an example of teamwork, Ruben highlights a project for a major client who struggled with changes in key contacts. “By looking at the problem together and giving everyone the space to contribute ideas, we were able to retain the client. That was largely thanks to the knowledge and good ideas from colleagues who have been in this sector longer than I have.”
Being able to share ideas freely gives Ruben energy: “When ideas aren’t dismissed immediately, it creates space. One person rarely has the perfect solution alone, but by combining ideas and sparring together, the solution becomes visible much faster.”
That exchange works both ways. While colleagues bring sector knowledge and expertise, Ruben brings a fresh perspective. “That combination leads to new insights. Everyone contributes in their own way,” he explains.
He reflects positively on the collaboration: “Of course you make mistakes, but by acknowledging them and learning together, you try to do it just that little bit better next time.” Through collaboration and shared commitment, the team achieves more and safeguards what matters.