The eternal builders of APK Group
Ben is business unit manager of APK Wegenbouw in Pelt. A position he was assigned through punishing work and a nice growth trajectory over the years. "I started at APK Group in 2002 as a labourer. That was then still with the shovel. After two years I was promoted to foreman and again a few years later I became site manager. You always get opportunities within APK Group. Especially if the ambition is there to grow, then APK Group is the right place for you."
That hands-on experience in a growth trajectory is what Ben considers one of the most important tips for any young starter. "When you are fresh out of school, practical experience is golden. Rolling up your sleeves and discovering for yourself how things work. That makes all the difference in becoming a top site manager, or any senior position."
The next step in his career became a short break at APK Group due to distance from the sites. Not much later, he rejoined the group along with the acquired Roads Martin. "When I left, APK Group was only 500 strong. When I returned, it was suddenly 1,500. A firm growth, but the family character always remained." On this return within APK Group, Ben was offered the position of business unit manager, which he still performs to this day.
The reason Ben likes working at APK Group? That includes the atmosphere. "The atmosphere is top notch and my team, that is sacred to me. As a manager, I try to stay as accessible as possible and that is appreciated. In addition, Ben finds the variety in the projects an absolute added value: "We have several challenging projects. Yes it is always Roads Construction, but every project is different. Sometimes we even colour outside our domain a bit which adds to the variety." The nice job security the group offers is a final reason for Ben to choose APK Group.
Meet Gery, a perpetual builder of APK Group who started at APK Group with his brother John in 1999. His brother started as a foreman and Gery joined his team as a machinist/groundworker in maintenance works.
Gery's trajectory evolved over the years: "When my brother John became execution manager, I climbed up to shift manager. In 2004, I was promoted to execution manager and then to customer manager. Since 2023, I have been responsible for the study department where I am responsible for invoicing, following up planning, managing tenders and I act as SPOC for Synductis planning." His impressive growth path is due to his experience gained in the various positions.
Why did Gery choose APK Group 25 years ago and more importantly, why does he stay? "I started here with my brother and stayed because of the agreements made at the time regarding my growth path for the future. The company is growing and we are growing with it. There are so many opportunities for growth at APK Group, I have been given opportunities, and the unity within the company is invaluable!"
With 25 years on the clock, Gery has no plans to leave. "I've been here for 25 years so why shouldn't I stay until retirement?"
His advice to young starters who want their first job in construction? "Be open to training provided within the company and dare to ask questions! At APK Group, there is the patience to train and grow people. Seize the opportunities that are offered to you."
Meet John, a valuable member of APK Group for 25 years. Since 2020, he has held the role of client manager for the intervention team, where he manages maintenance works for Fluvius and is responsible for replacing wooden poles and installing LED lighting. However, his impressive journey at APK Group began back in 1999 as foreman, after which he progressed to execution manager. Now, as customer manager, John has taken a remarkable journey.
Why is John staying? "If you do what you have to do, you'll stick too!" After 25 years, he still feels happy and appreciates the group spirit within APK Group, which brings him joy to work every day. Despite his leadership role, he remains humble: "Being above my people? I don't, they haven't done that to me either. I definitely see myself working here until I retire. I feel happy here."
His advice for young start-ups? "The works you do in practice, you don't learn at school. In utilities, you start from scratch. At APK Group, you get all the opportunities you deserve if you do your job well. Is it not your thing? Then there are always other branches within the company you can go into."
Meet Wim, who started as a warehouse worker at the former Rens 24 years ago. Upon takeover by APK Group, he was promoted to head warehouse keeper and is now also supporting unit manager of the warehouse and site manager in Genk.
"I have been there since the very beginning. APK Group had only 300 employees then. I have witnessed the entire growth of the company. Maarten Broens worked as a job student under my supervision 15 years ago and now he is CEO of APK Group, chapeau!"
"Why am I sticking with APK Group? My work is appreciated and I get the freedom to do it in my own way. I find satisfaction in working with people. I haven't come to work a day against my will. I love doing this job and I want to keep doing it until I retire. No one will take that away from me."
For young starters, Wim has wise words: "In practice, not everything works the way you learn at school. Walk along in the field so you understand what they are really doing."
Why anyone should choose APK Group according to chief warehouse manager Wim? APK Group is a healthy group that is growing strongly. "You get freedom in your work and are let go once you prove yourself. The confidence is there. You can take training courses and grow. Start as a groundworker and progress to business unit manager? At APK Group, it's possible!"
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