Even before completing my MSc., I aimed at securing a position that would help me maximize my professional development, allowing enough room for impact and responsibility. Getting the right first job is a challenging task, and I’m glad I joined Broadview Holding as an ITP in the Business Analysis track.
Variety in disciplines
Joining such a diverse program translates into working in diverse business areas, for various companies, in different countries. During my ITP trajectory, I have worked for Broadview's Business Development team in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, as a member of the Finance department of Formica NA in Cincinnati, and in the commercial division of Direct Online Services in Gloucester, where my current project takes place.
Every project has been thought-provoking and analytical, as Broadview’s ITP allows trainees to work with CEOs and key executives, focusing on content from day one. For instance, during my first weeks in the program, I understood how much emphasis is put on having a factual understanding in any situation. Understanding the impact of data-driven decisions helped me develop my analyses and accelerate my learning curve, exactly as I had hoped.
Taking responsibility
Taking responsibility from the early stages of the program has enabled me to grow professionally and has given me the opportunity to impact important wider-scope projects within the group. For instance, during my time at Formica NA, one of my most important tasks was a market mapping, involving stakeholders from various companies within the group (e.g., Formica and Broadview), which I found significantly challenging, but important. In my opinion, embracing responsibility means opening the door to growth.
Culture
Before joining the program, I found myself wondering, "How can I ensure a smooth transition between the various companies within the group, considering each one has its own distinct characteristics?” Eventually, the answer to this question lied in the concrete company culture that is instilled within all businesses in the group. I have found the three pillars of integrity, responsibility and transparency to be the compass I can use in my professional life.
Learnings
Moreover, following a trajectory of diverse and challenging projects has been truly beneficial to my professional and personal development. Regarding my professional skills, the way I structure each problem, analyze and synthesize has been massively affected by my previous projects and the Development Days. Additionally, emphasizing on soft skills during the communication skills lab has assisted me in dealing with multiple stakeholders from different backgrounds.
My projects
My first project was at Formica NA, and it was related to commercial excellence and the integration of Hartson-Kennedy (‘H-K’), a newly acquired business. I joined Formica’s team in Cincinnati after spending some time in the holding office in the Netherlands. During this project, I conducted numerous analyses for H-K and Formica NA, and I also helped with a market mapping.
What has impressed me so far is that, despite working in strikingly different teams, the core philosophy of the group remains relevant and helps establish a common language.