Talent development was not new for K_Dekker at that time. Siem Stam, the HR manager, had been involved in it for quite some time. “We operate in a market where skills are becoming increasingly important. While having the right technical skills is crucial, success also hinges on effective collaboration and positive team dynamics. What truly matters is having people in the right roles. That’s when they become more effective.”
Within the organization, anyone who wants to develop themselves can undergo a TMA Talent Analysis. Afterwards, they engage in conversations with a coach and create their own PDP (Personal Development Plan). Stam explains, “In the PDP, you can express what you’d like to achieve—whether it’s deepening your current role, transitioning to a different role within your function, or even exploring an entirely new position. Some individuals take two months to complete their PDP, while others take nine. For us, the duration doesn’t matter as long as they reflect consciously. Plans are more likely to succeed when people create them themselves.”
He continues, “Employees need to take the wheel if we genuinely want to drive change. That’s why we ask open-ended questions and raise awareness about behavior. For instance, we encourage someone aspiring to be an environmental manager to consider their talent for project management. Our message is clear: focus your energy on what comes naturally. When everyone does that, it makes the entire company better.”