Marc & John - CEO & Director of Sales North America, Movacolor
After a record year in 2022, Movacolor continues its growth unabated in 2023. The Dutch company in the plastics industry is focusing on expanding its activities in Asia and the United States. Nomilk2day found the right people for both continents to make this expansion a reality.
Marc & John - CEO & Director of Sales North America
Entering a new geographical market or expanding existing foreign activities is more likely to succeed with a local professional on board. That's why Movacolor engaged Nomilk2day for the international growth ambition of their Kuala Lumpur location, which, in addition to the Netherlands, also has an office in Malaysia. CEO Marc Aandeweg: "After the assignment was successfully filled, we discussed our expansion plans for the United States. Lis Briët from Nomilk2day USA took on the challenge of finding the right person who can give Movacolor a boost."
Do you always choose local people to realize your plans?
M: "Preferably yes. I really see it as added value to work with a recruiter who lives and works locally. This person understands how the market works. Moreover, as a Dutch company, it's nice to work with another Dutch person, because naturally they understand how we think and work and can translate that well to the phase we are in. Lis is personable, involved, understands our situation, and knows how to translate that into the skills and person we need. So, the chemistry is good."
How did you and Lis approach the recruitment process?
M: "We started by creating a broad list of possible candidates, companies, and locations where they could be. Then we removed some companies we already work closely with from the longlist. As well as American candidates without European experience and Dutch candidates without US experience. With the remaining longlist, Lis continued the search and started contacting people."
Did it have to be an American?
M: "From experience, I know that sometimes it can be an advantage to be a foreigner with a Dutch accent. Yet, at this stage of our company, it seemed better to appoint a local senior professional. Someone who knows the ins and outs of how things work in the US, has a network, and has the knowledge and has learned from past mistakes. With such a track record, we can achieve our goals faster."
Back to the recruitment process. How was the approach?
M: "Well, with John Farney, she hit the jackpot. He had previously worked for an international company in our industry and knows everyone in that world. John is full of energy and is a huge networker. I really see that as added value. Within two to three months of his appointment, we set up a local entity together and our adventure began."
John: what was your experience with this process?
J: "The process was extremely thorough. Lis was well-prepared and had a lot of knowledge. She asked a lot of questions about my background and experience in the world of plastics. She took the time to explain the opportunities at Movacolor. Due to her professionalism, friendliness, and patience, the process went smoothly and it was pleasant to work together. Movacolor is the market leader in their field, making it easy to build a network. By leveraging existing relationships and presenting their innovative technology, we can truly move forward."
John started in March. What is his first assignment?
M: "We have had an existing distribution channel in the US for fifteen years, which we sell through both distributors and private label. Although the industry is familiar with our technology and quite fond of it, not enough companies know us by name. What Movacolor needs now is a positive restart. John will put Movacolor on the map in the US by optimizing our distribution channel and increasing our brand awareness."
How were your first months, John?
J: "My focus was on getting familiar with all the processes and information. Coming from the industry, I knew a lot about the types of products they produce. In the second week, I met two of my colleagues at a trade show in Anaheim (Los Angeles). It was a great opportunity to get involved and discuss everything with them to become more familiar with all Movacolor products and people. They were very interested in our market and the opportunities it offers, so I took them to various exhibitors to introduce them to the American market. It went quite smoothly. Then I met the entire sales team in Sneek. Marc and I have been in touch almost daily since. My first goal is to build a team and establish contact with agents and distributors in the North American market. And I must say, it's being well received. Very nice."
What is it like to work for a European company as an American?
J: "In many ways, it's good. My colleagues are incredibly patient, skilled, and multilingual. I admire how they enter the market with their products. They are always open to ideas to expand our already extensive market position. This makes the work enjoyable. One of the refreshing things for me is the focus on quality and reputation. Furthermore, I have noticed that my European colleagues are eager to learn from me and also eager to share knowledge. I see it as a great challenge to bring the Movacolor brand and all its products to the market. I love working in the plastics industry."
What makes the industry such a great place to work?
J: "I think it's the diversity. If you look around, it's impossible not to see that plastics are an important part of our lives. They are in medical devices, your home, kitchen, groceries, cars, sports equipment... Literally in every aspect of our world. Plastics are all around you. And it's possible to turn waste into gold by converting it into products that have a positive impact on people's lives. That's why I'm so fascinated by plastic. Additionally, the market is willing to explore new opportunities and technologies. With so many issues in the industrial market, bringing progress and solutions is very satisfying."
Marc, how big are your ambitions?
M: "The growth markets in our industry are mainly in Asia and the United States. The US is so large that we will need more colleagues in sales and support. Due to the time difference with the Netherlands, it's difficult to provide full support from the Netherlands, so we are expanding in the Chicago region."
Next time Nomilk2day again, Marc?
M: "Absolutely. Nomilk2day has found colleagues for us, both for our headquarters in the Netherlands and for the sales offices in Malaysia and the United States. The consultants now know our company well. I wanted a specialist in our industry and that's what they are. In addition, they act quickly, understand exactly what is needed at any given moment, and I have full confidence in their approach."
Do you also have an international recruitment issue? Our consultants in Asia are happy to help.
[Published: November 2023]
