A job at Red Bull, an adventure at the Van Gogh Museum, a trip around the world with her family and a career at Jaarbeurs. Annemijn did not walk a standard path and that is exactly what makes her so special. "I wanted to get back to work with full energy. When I saw the vacancy of business controller at Jaarbeurs, I knew: this is it."
Giving it all up for adventure
After a dynamic spell at Red Bull, “a brilliant experience for that stage of my life”, Annemijn decided to change course. She swapped energy drinks for art and started working at the Van Gogh Museum. But adventure was calling. Pregnant with her second daughter, she handed in her notice, let out her house and set off on a round-the-world trip with her family. “I was 16 weeks pregnant when we set off. We gave everything up and just went. New Zealand was magical.” Her second daughter was born upon their return home. It was a period full of excitement, choices and personal growth.
Back in the Netherlands: a fresh start at Jaarbeurs
After her travels, Annemijn was keen to get back to work with renewed energy. She came across a vacancy at Jaarbeurs on LinkedIn. “There were so many aspects of the role that appealed to me. As a business controller here, you’re not just dealing with figures, but you’re also a real sparring partner. I got on really well with the corporate recruiter straight away. It felt familiar and dynamic – exactly what I was looking for.”
From car parks to Thunderdome
Annemijn now works across a broad portfolio within Jaarbeurs: from complex refurbishment to facilities, car parks, legal, sales and HR. “In the space of a day, I might go from an Excel analysis to a brainstorming session about Thunderdome. That variety and dynamism really energise me.”
"Data says a lot, but it's about what you do with it. Which components do you include in a business case? How do you substantiate choices?" Each business controller at Jaarbeurs has their own area of expertise. Annemijn discusses budgets with different managers and dives into projects in terms of content. "The most fun? That you never know exactly how your day will go. I walk out of here with energy every day."
Work-life balance
With two young children at home, flexibility is key. “I want to be there for everything, but sometimes planning can be a challenge. Fortunately, everyone at Jaarbeurs is very understanding and supportive. I’m glad I enjoy my work so much. People here are genuinely committed, and that makes all the difference.”
Any advice for new colleagues?
“Let yourself be surprised. There’s so much to an organisation like this. I had no idea when I first joined. Jaarbeurs really is an attraction in its own right.”
