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ABOUT

 Jakob Gerrits - CATMANDO

Who am I?

I am an entrepreneurial, travel-loving, versatile, energetic and sporty father of two sons. I have a strong network, both socially and professionally. I like to work with other people on everything that can be made better and more beautiful, both privately and professional.

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What am I doing?

I get a lot of energy from raising assortments and results at the intersection of purchasing, product management, category management and sales. I can do this for you on a project or on interim basis. My knowledge is widely applicable: in the field of FMCG, Food and Non Food, in retail or at an importer.

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What is my ambition?

I’ll drive home happily in the evening after I have had a constructive conversation with a supplier who understands how we can improve our joint results. When I have received a quote with which I can purchase more sharply and more conveniently. When I have successfully introduced someone from my network. And ...especially when I see beautiful products in a brochure, shelf plan or promotion that make a difference in appearance, price or innovation.

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What do I bring?

From my retail background (14+ years) at Kruidvat/Trekpleister, Big Bazar and Bruna, I am used to being close to the consumer and constantly wondering what considerations a consumer makes. Whether it concerns food, ink cartridges, toys, home decoration or even dog bones, in all cases I find the processes extremely fascinating.

I can oversee the entire playing field from the factory to the cash register. I am used to working in an international environment, I know my way around Europe and China and I can relate to both a retailer and a supplier. With my impressive network of A-brand suppliers, Chinese and European manufacturers, I always find opportunities to find the right products.

On the supplier side I have gained broad experience in the field of project management, product development and strategic issues. 

If you are curious about my complete CV or references, please request them via the contact form.

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What is my working style?

​Colleagues describe me as having a positive attitude, as a connector and as someone who is able to make adequate decisions, even based on limited information. Ultimately it is about the result, but the road to it can be defined in many ways. I opt for cooperation where possible and thoroughness where necessary. With my top sport experience as a volleyball player at 1st division level, I know how to effectively realize your ambitions as a team and get the best out of yourself and others. I have an eye for detail, but always keep the big picture in mind. I value solutions, improvements and dynamics and I also know how to move and motivate others. Even when it gets difficult or complex!

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 What to expect from me?

1. Result-oriented: I like to make clear agreements about the goals we want to achieve. A good start makes half the work

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2. Cooperation: Whether it's internal Marketing, Supply Chain, Sales or other departments, it's essential to keep everyone connected and motivated. This of course also applies to customers, suppliers or other external parties

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3. Flexibility: sometimes there are surprising new insights that make it even easier to achieve your goals. As long as these goals stay in view, I'm open minded enough to explore alternative ideas

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4. Start – end: Starting a project is usually easier than completing it on time and successfully. With good planning and making clear choices I manage projects to the right results

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5. Customer-oriented: Ultimately, in every company, the customer pays the salary of its employees. I will always put the customer central if decisions have to be made

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6. Pragmatism: I am a realist, I want to deliver what I promise and I am committed to professionalism. In principle, anything is possible, but in the end something must also be achievable. Only when a “no” is a “no” a “yes” is a real “yes”.

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7. Integrity: I value doing business with integrity. I deal with all parties correctly and respectfully, even with conflicting interests, and I expect the same in return. This does not detract from the constant urge to achieve the best long-term result.

+31 6 4202 5957

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