“If people know they can fall without breaking, they will dare to fly.”

When you meet Dieuwer van Staveren, her energy and authenticity are immediately striking. Over the past 13 years at FrieslandCampina, she has carved out an impressive career path. Starting as a account manager in the Netherlands, rising to the role of Global Procurement Manager, where she is currently overseeing the company's purchases worldwide. Her journey began in the commercial domain, where she sold FrieslandCampina’s products to major retailers like Albert Heijn and Jumbo. After two years as Managing Director in Germany, Dieuwer returned to the headquarter and start working at the other side of the business spectrum: Procurement. Today, she leads a team responsible for managing nearly half of FrieslandCampina’s total financial flow. “It’s actually quite fascinating,” she shares. “When you understand how critical procurement is, you realise the enormous impact we can make on the company. And yes, it is exciting to sit at the other side of the table nowadays, which means in the position that sets the agenda , which is really nice!".

Her style is coach-like and collaborative, she gives her team the confidence to take initiative, make mistakes, and learn from them. “You need a safety net,” she explains. “If people know they can fall without breaking, they will dare to fly.” FrieslandCampina has given her that same trust. “It is give and take,” she says. “I’ve invested a lot in FrieslandCampina, but it has given me even more in return. Opportunities, freedom, and a sense of purpose.” For Dieuwer, growth means more than climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about personal development, courage, and helping others succeed. “If you want a lot, you can achieve a lot here. FrieslandCampina gives you the space, it is up to you to fill it.”

In her current role, Dieuwer is focusing on shaping the future of procurement through sustainable partnerships. As a cooperative, FrieslandCampina is owned by its farmers, who supply the milk that lies at the heart of everything the company does. That unique structure creates a different mindset, it is not about maximising profit but creating shared value. “Procurement used to be about efficiency and cost,” Dieuwer explains, “now it’s shifting to collaboration, sustainability, and mutual benefit.” With her vision, Dieuwer embodies what FrieslandCampina stands for: shaping a future where collaboration drives innovation, sustainability, and shared success across the entire value chain. It’s a journey she’s proud to be part of, and one she is excited to continue.