Van den Bosch celebrates jubilee evening

It’s one of our finest traditions: the jubilee evening. At the beginning of November, we paid tribute to over 300 years of service, given by fourteen jubilarians and retirees. Although most would rather avoid the spotlight in everyday life, they were able to enjoy it for once. 

"You don't experience this every day," says driver Hasan Ummaz, who in 40 years got to know just about every highway in Europe. "You forget your worries on the road, and enjoy what you’re seeing. The sunrise, the landscape, the freedom... Behind the wheel, I’m happy. Suddenly being asked to sit down this evening for a personal talk took me by surprise. I’m delighted that the company is acknowledging my years of service. I feel that my efforts are appreciated."

Top row: Hans Kanters, Stefan Janssen, Hasan Ummaz, Rico Daandels, Frans Ketelaars, Willem Westhoff, Ellen Magielse, Thom van Egmond, Marcel van Boxtel and Peter van den Bosch
Bottom row: Michael van Os, Mari van den Akker, Leo Swinkels and John Wijts

326.5 years of experience
The event was held at the Van den Bosch Academy, where the Van den Bosch Museum was opened on the occasion of the 60th anniversary. "It’s great to have 326.5 years of Van den Bosch experience present here," said CEO Rico Daandels. The focus was not only on the jubilarians themselves, but also on their families. "To be successful in a business, you need the support and trust that comes from home. All the applause tonight is not just for the jubilarians, but also for you," Rico said.

Laughter and relaxation
Then, one by one, the jubilarians were invited for a talk on stage. HR director Niels Reijnen talked to them about their work, as well as their private interests and hobbies. Various anecdotes, such as about nicknames and memorable work incidents, provided laughter and much-needed relaxation. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the buffet was being prepared, which was thoroughly enjoyed during the breaks. 

Pat on the back 
"That we hold this event is a good thing", says ICT System Architect Marcel van Boxtel, who celebrated his 25th anniversary. “It’s proof that you’re doing something right. And everyone likes a pat on the back, don't they?" Where his next milestone lies, Marcel doesn’t know yet. "I don't have a roadmap. I would prefer to stay with Van den Bosch. I get opportunities to take initiative, to take on projects, and I enjoy my work. As long as that remains the case, I'll be quite happy here."

Enough of a challenge
Ellen Magielse (administrative assistant Technical Department) has also been with us for a quarter of a century. "If you had asked me beforehand: 'Ellen, do you want to stand in the spotlight tonight?" I would have said no. That’s just not me. But it is fun! I can feel the appreciation, that attention is being paid to me." Ellen held a variety of positions at Van den Bosch. "For me, the best thing about my job is the variety. There is enough of a challenge within our company."

Personal appreciation
Finally, we speak to Driver Academy trainers Willem Westhoff and John Wijts, both with 12.5 years of service. They too enjoyed the jubilee evening. "Always nice to hear that you are appreciated," says Willem. "But it’s not what we do it for. For us, it's all about the business. I’m good to Van den Bosch, and Van den Bosch has always been good to me too." John adds: "I’ve been coming here since childhood - my heart is with Van den Bosch. And even though I don't work to be in the spotlight, this personal appreciation feels really nice."

Our 2024 jubilarians:
12.5 years: Stefan Janssen, Willem Westhoff, John Wijts, Joep Verhoeven and Twan Hubers
25 years: Marcel van Boxtel and Ellen Magielse
40 years: Hasan Ummaz, Frans Ketelaars and Hans Kanters
45 years: Leo Swinkels
Retirees: Michael van Os, Mari van den Akker and Laszlo Tarsoly