Bram

Building confidence beyond your comfort zone

My name is Bram Hendriksz, Global Supply Chain Trainee at FrieslandCampina.

When I applied for the Global Traineeship, I did not yet know what kind of role would suit me best in the long run. What I did know, was that I wanted to experience different environments, challenge myself, and better understand where my strengths lie before making that choice.

I studied Transport, Infrastructure and Logistics, and throughout my studies I was always interested in how complex systems work together. Supply chain felt like a natural direction, especially because it allows you to look at the bigger picture. What attracted me to FrieslandCampina was that end to end perspective. Understanding how decisions made in one place can have an impact elsewhere, all the way down to the production floor.

The traineeship appealed to me because it does not expect you to have everything figured out from day one. Instead, you are encouraged to learn by doing, step into new situations, and grow along the way.

Learning by stepping into the unknown

The beginning of my first rotation took me to Patras, Greece, where I worked in a production plant for six months. I supported the implementation of a standardized way of working aimed at improving efficiency across FrieslandCampina factories. My role was not about technical ownership, but about supporting and facilitating change.

Working in a factory environment was intense, but also very valuable. You quickly see how important it is to stay close to operations. Even small changes can have a big impact on the people on the production floor. Being there helped me understand those realities much better.

What I enjoyed most was the human side of the work. Many colleagues had been working in the factory for a long time, so trust was essential. Especially in the beginning, I focused on getting to know people, both in the office and on the shop floor. Even when there was a language barrier, taking the time for a conversation made a difference. Once people feel respected and involved, they are much more open to change.

Living and working abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had a lot of autonomy, which meant I had to take initiative and find my own way. Being on my own also gave me time to reflect. I started thinking more consciously about how I work, how I react in certain situations, and where I can add the most value. That personal growth has been just as important as the professional learning.

Bram Lutjewinkel

Curious by nature, motivated by making an impact

Curiosity is the nature that best describes me. In an environment with a lot of autonomy, curiosity is essential. I like asking questions, digging deeper, and challenging existing ways of working, even when people have been doing things the same way for years. By gathering information and connecting the dots, I can build a broader picture and understand how everything fits together.

That curiosity applies just as much to people as it does to the work itself. I get a lot of energy from connecting with others, understanding what drives them, and helping them move forward. Walking around the factory, talking to operators, and learning what matters to them made my days. Bringing people together and helping them work better together is something I really enjoy.

The EVP pillar that resonates most with me is Passion for Results. At FrieslandCampina, there is a strong sense that there is always room to improve, both as an organization and as an individual. That mindset challenges me to keep stretching myself, to reflect on my own development, and to grow together with others. The traineeship gives you the space and support to do that, even when you are still figuring things out.

The global aspect of the traineeship has further broadened my perspective. Working with trainees and colleagues from different countries and cultures opens your mind and shows you how many different ways there are to approach the same challenge. It makes the world feel smaller and the possibilities bigger.

Those who not jump, will never fly

Looking ahead, I do not have everything mapped out yet, and that feels right. I know I want to keep working in teams, stay close to operations, and continue developing myself by stepping into new situations. For anyone considering applying for the Global Traineeship, my advice is simple. Take the step. You do not need to have all the answers upfront. This program gives you the opportunity to learn, reflect, and grow, both professionally and personally. As a quote that really stayed with me says, those who do not jump will never fly.