The Tolsma-Grisnich Group has experienced significant growth in recent years. What is the secret? "We excel in service and advice. Customer service is our lifeblood," says Vincent Hofstee, CCO. The growth of recent years requires adjustments in the management and the addition of new personnel. "We are currently looking for a new International Financial Controller who will support our own branches worldwide."
Modern and with international allure. That's the impression conveyed by Tolsma-Grisnich's new building on the A6. Behind the facade lie two hectares of production facilities and 800 square meters of office space. 250 people work in this building. They also support the independent Tolsma-Grisnich branches abroad. All machines are manufactured in Emmeloord. The products are marketed worldwide, from Scandinavia to Australia.
It's hard to imagine now, but Tolsma-Grisnich started small. How did it all begin?
The energy crisis didn't stop you. How did you tackle this?
"There was no capacity for a new electricity connection in this industrial area. We would have had to wait for years for that. Therefore, independent of the government, we created our own energy square. We don't have more than a basic household connection. Our energy mainly comes from solar panels, three large batteries, a biodiesel emergency power generator. At the moment, we are also working on a hydrogen fuel cell."
Can you summarize the essence of your activities in a nutshell?
"The Tolsma-Grisnich Group is an innovative, reliable partner that provides complete solutions from storage to the handling of agricultural products - potatoes, onions, and carrots. We cater to agricultural entrepreneurs as well as packers and processors. In storage, we provide systems for drying and cooling, allowing the products to be stored for long periods, up to eleven months, without diseases. In processing, we ensure efficient logistics, cleaning, and optical or mechanical sorting. This ensures that the products are cleanly and undamaged, neatly packaged."
"Delivering good, innovative machines is our core business. But we do much more than that. Tolsma-Grisnich is known for its strong advice and service. Not just when a machine is faulty; we also provide intensive guidance to customers on the optimal use of the machines. Several employees are dedicated to this full-time daily. Customer service is our trademark. This will become even more important in the future."
Most companies want to be service-oriented; what extra do you offer?
“First of all, there is a difference between doing and saying you do it. We have a Research & Development department of about 20 people. We do not compromise on quality. We are committed to staying ahead in new developments. This is why we invest heavily in innovative software. From potato washers to conveyor belts: the machines are designed here and made in our own factory. Our service orientation is effective: companies are willing to pay for it because they see the benefits.”
Can you give an example of innovative software?
“Our optical sorter is a good example. This sorter reads 15 to 18 tons of seed potatoes per hour for quality. Using AI technology, the machine precisely identifies which potatoes have defects and sorts them out immediately. This significantly improves the quality of the harvest. We are increasingly working with AI, which provides numerous opportunities to create communicating and self-learning machines. We are also making great strides in data collection. The more data you have from the field, the better you know what to expect as an entrepreneur.”
What does your career at Tolsma-Grisnich look like?
“I have a background in export and started at Tolsma-Grisnich in 2012. For the first six years, I focused on new export countries in Africa. Our storage systems are located in the most complex areas in Africa, where our systems truly make a difference. I find energy in this; as well as in building a team. I established our office in France. After a 'detour' to Lamb Weston, I returned to Tolsma-Grisnich to implement reorganizations at facilities in America, Canada, and Germany. Since January, I have been the Commercial Director, responsible for sales and marketing. Why this company? I am involved in matters that truly matter here, in a global market, with cultures, coaching people, and giving responsibility. Both here and abroad. This dynamism makes our work fascinating.”
You have experienced significant growth in recent years. What does this mean for your operations?
“In the past five to six years, we have grown significantly to 80 million in revenue. The goal is to reach 100 million in revenue in the coming years. This is certainly great, but equally important is: are we growing in the right way? We are in the process of implementing a new ERP system. Fifteen years ago, a farmer would drive up on a tractor to pick up a part for a machine. We still offer local service, while building structures. We can no longer just pick something off the shelf, but we still aim to serve the farmer optimally.”
What does it ask of you people?
“It's all about people and the right competencies. We are moving towards a professional work culture. This requires our people to adhere to social norms and grow in ownership. Good leadership is indispensable; we invest heavily in that. We value good coaching for our people. People need to feel supported in their roles.”
You are looking for a financial spider in the web. What does this role look like?
“The International Financial Controller works in Emmeloord, while being fully involved in our branches worldwide. It's a great, dynamic role where you are operational but also think strategically. For example, on how to properly set up business processes abroad and roll out the ERP system. We are looking for an enterprising business controller, communicative and strong analytically. If you are a bit adventurous, this role offers you many opportunities. A few times a year, you will visit branches abroad.”
In addition, you need someone in South Germany. What characterizes that position?
“Our post in Germany has been unmanned for a while. We are looking for an Area Sales Manager who will develop their own market in South Germany. Preferably a Dutch person. Dutch people are known in Germany for their problem-solving mindset and extensive experience in agriculture. That's a great starting point. For this role, an agricultural background is important, as well as fluency in German. You are enterprising and enjoy working collaboratively. The location is in Bavaria. You have a lot of autonomy in this role, but you will also be supported by our headquarters.”
