OR Newsflash
Changing of the guard
The Works Council (OR) consists of fifteen members, two added members, and an official secretary. Members are elected for a term of three years. When someone leaves the OR mid-term, the person who just missed out on being elected in the last OR elections is eligible to join the OR. Marnix Morren (EHS Specialist and Industrial Hygienist) left the OR as of April 1st, while Johan Holierhoek (Sr. Execution Systems Engineer, Technical System Owner of the PLC systems within production and utilities) returned to the OR. They interviewed each other about the how and why.
Marnix
Johan, what made you decide to return to the OR?
Johan
First of all, the fact that I was asked. And I enjoyed the OR before and still do. I also feel like I can seriously contribute to the functioning of the OR. But Marnix, why are you leaving the OR?
Marnix
Unfortunately, I'm stepping down from the OR because I’ve taken on a GROW assignment as ‘Industrial Hygiene Data Management System Implementation Manager’. It wasn’t practically possible to combine this new role with the OR, so a choice had to be made. What is it that still attracts you to the OR, Johan?
Johan
Definitely the collaboration with people from all departments. You hear a lot about what’s going on in the company and often get immediate feedback on how it’s perceived in the various departments. I’m also drawn to the diversity of the group – young/old, men/women, various cultures. How was that for you, Marnix?
Marnix
For me too, it was about working with people from different departments, the different perspectives you gain, and how much you can learn about all the processes in a short time. I was also drawn to the work the OR does, thinking along, participating in important decisions, and looking at issues from all sides. Johan, what did you miss most about the OR?
”You learn a lot in a short time”
Marnix Morren
Johan
I missed my OR colleagues the most. It was, and still is, a great group of people. I really missed the connections. And also being there for the employees. People still came to me with questions and I had to refer them elsewhere. Secretly, I still tried to help people wherever I could. What will you miss the most, Marnix?
Marnix
I think the detailed discussions and the research, for sure. What experience are you bringing back to the OR?
Johan
If I’m not mistaken, I’ve spent about 18 years in the OR and have been on all the committees. I started out in the PR committee. Then I was in the AVW/VGWM and the O&B committees. Later, I joined the Daily Board as vice-chair and in recent years as chair. That’s quite a bit of experience. What did you do in the OR, Marnix?
Marnix
I served as vice-chair for a year and quickly got up to speed with the OR processes. I also studied the laws and regulations concerning the OR thoroughly. What did you do over the past year while you weren’t in the OR?
Johan
I just continued in my regular role, there’s plenty of work there. I was also preparing for my retirement, but that’s taken a back seat after the passing of my wife.
Marnix
That’s very sad to hear. How do you relax or unwind at home?
Johan
At home, I unwind by walking my dog. I also try to exercise a few times a week. It’s not physical rest, but it helps me mentally reset. When the weather is nice, I enjoy cycling. I also like listening to music (classic rock), spending time on the computer, and watching good TV shows. How do you relax at home?
Marnix
Road cycling with friends, doing odd jobs around the house or in the garden. I also enjoy cooking or just grabbing a drink or bite to eat somewhere.
Johan
Finally, Marnix, by the next OR elections in 2027, I’ll be retired. Did you know that you can always run again for election?
Marnix
Absolutely, just like anyone can. So, I’d say to everyone: start thinking about it. Interested? A conversation is always possible to gain more insight!