Jip van Wissen Business Manager Defence

‘If you're in engineering, you can hardly ignore VDL Groep. That also applies in the defence market.I ensure that the questions from our customers in this market reach the right VDL companies. We often have to deal with complex issues. That makes my work extremely interesting. Besides, it seems like everything I have done in my life so far comes together in my job at VDL. I was in the army for ten years and worked in the automotive industry. Everything I learned comes in handy in my job at VDL. As if this job has been has been put together for me. Cool right?’

Helping customers move forward, side by side

‘As business manager, one of the things I ensure is that new customer requests reach the right VDL companies and that these orders are carried out. So I work closely with the VDL companies that jointly pick up defence projects. And I am still amazed at what we can make. Believe me, there really is a lot of knowledge and skill in our companies. We can literally make anything; I have never had to disappoint a customer. That gives me energy every time I receive a new issue. Sometimes it seems like a very complex puzzle, but I know that with the right combinations I can solve it to my satisfaction. And what I also find very special is that everything and everyone is so accessible. We are quite a large organisation, but it doesn't feel like that, because at the same time it is also a very flat organisation. We are a family business in which we work together for the best results. From a group feeling. As an ex-military man, that naturally appeals to me a lot. In my job, by the way, it is also indispensable. I can't ‘make’ anything myself. I need the VDL companies for that, they are the knowledge holders. So we really do it together. Side by side, we help our customers move forward every time.’

Continuously challenging yourself

‘I also notice that sense of togetherness in the way we collaborate to optimally serve the defense market. By combining the expertise of various VDL companies, we are a strong partner. Before, we mainly focused on integrations of vehicles, such as fitting a crane to a car. Now we take on an awful lot and more diverse issues: on land, at sea, in the air and even in space. We help with all kinds of questions and even think along in the development of new products. The transition we have gone through is extraordinary. I try to make that known in the market. More and more companies know that VDL can support you in all kinds of areas. I am very proud of that! VDL offers endless possibilities. Not only to customers, but also to us as professionals. In my experience you can keep working here until your retirement, without getting bored or rusting. You can really fulfil your ambitions at VDL.  That's enormously enjoyable.’