Meet Gerbrand Pekel: recently Manager Account Management at Flexspecialisten. A cheerful, motivating connector who loves challenges, people and carp fishing. We asked Gerbrand about his background, his new position and his first period at Flexspecialisten. 

Introducing... 

Gerbrand is a cheerful, motivating connector who loves people, challenges and the outdoors. He is 52 years old and lives in beautiful Bergharen, together with his wife and their two children. Of course their dog Dex is also part of the family. 

"In my free time I can often be found on the waterfront," he explains. "Whether I'm fishing for carp with my rods and tent or taking a nice walk with Dex, it's the way for me to unwind after a week full of appointments, meetings and ad hoc business." In addition to his love of the outdoors, he also has a passion for soccer. "I watch a lot of European matches together with my father. My club Ajax is not really showing its best side at the moment," he says with a laugh, "but I enjoy the game. So I also like to follow other Dutch clubs in Europe." 

Cheerful, motivating and connecting: these are the three words that describe Gerbrand. "I think it's important to bring people together and build something beautiful together," he says. "That applies not only to my work, but also outside of it. Together you always achieve more than alone." 

Career 

Gerbrand was given many responsibilities early in his career. "I was thrown to the lions at a young age when I became a company manager," he says. "That shaped me into the person I am today: someone who takes responsibility and tries to get the best out of people." 

After that period, he ran his own Spar supermarket, an experience that taught him a lot about entrepreneurship and customer focus. He then made the switch to logistics, where he held various positions and eventually joined DHL as Warehouse Manager. "The logistics world taught me a lot about processes, efficiency and especially the importance of teamwork. Without a strong team you achieve little." 

After years in logistics, he decided to change course. "I applied to Flexspecialisten for the position of Account Manager," he says. "But Levina had other plans: she saw in me the right person for the role of Manager Account Management. And frankly, that was a hit. The combination of commerce and operations fits exactly with what I like and what I'm good at." 

In his role as Manager of Account Management, Gerbrand is responsible for theAccount Managers, scheduling and Facility Coordinator Housing & Transportation. "I regularly visit clients to strengthen cooperation and to see where we can improve. I also support my colleagues with decisions and daily challenges. My goal is to create an environment where everyone feels heard and enjoys working." 

First period at Flexspecialisten 

About his first months at Flexspecialisten, Gerbrand is enthusiastic. "From day one I felt welcome. Everyone was ready to help and I was immediately included in the Flex family. That sense of togetherness suits me well." 

What he enjoys most about his job are the conversations with clients and watching along on the shop floor. "I find it inspiring to see how our flex workers and clients work together. It motivates me to make sure everything runs smoothly and customers are satisfied." 

His goal is clear: "I want to work with my team toward a common goal: satisfied customers who get the attention they deserve. By working well together and motivating each other, we can further strengthen and grow those customer relationships." 

Professional development never stands still for Gerbrand. "I try to learn every day. By looking back on my choices, asking myself questions and listening to others. The flex industry is new to me, so I am constantly learning and I love that." 

With his positive energy, broad experience and connecting way of working, Gerbrand is a valuable asset to Flexspecialisten. "I am happy to be part of an organization here where cooperation, growth and attention to people are central," he states. "Here I really feel at home." 

With his positive energy and connecting approach, we are convinced that he will make a valuable contribution to the success of our team and the cooperation with our clients. We wish Gerbrand every success and pleasure in his new role!