The bridge between the salespeople and the box employees. That is Rutger van der Plas. As a box manager, he ensures that all activities in the box run smoothly. He provides daily support in the box where necessary. Do you hear loud laughter? Then you have a great chance of bumping into Rutger.

What his day looks like? He explains that and more in the interview. Read on quick.

Tell us about yourself (age, relationship, place of residence, etc.) 

I am Rutger van der Plas. I am 34 years old and have been happily married to my wife Rianne for 9 years. Together we have two children, Rick (6 years old) and Esmee (2 years old). We live in Katwijk.

What are your hobbies (besides working hard at WBE)?

I love soccer. Especially watching matches! My favorite clubs are Quick Boys and Ajax. I also enjoy gaming and I am a big fan of specialty beer.

What did you study? 

I have completed VMBO (LTS) construction technology. Then I went to do security training. After this training I applied for a job at the Marechaussee. Unfortunately, due to the large number of registrations, I did not make it through all the preliminary rounds.
Then I started working.

What did you do before you started working at WBE? 

Before I started working at WBE I worked at Floraholland as a side job. I also helped my uncle on the ride 1 day a week.

My great-nephew Fred van Delft (also working at WBE) told my parents that WBE was looking for employees and then the ball started rolling. I started at WBE on January 16, 2005, first as a box employee and now as a box manager.

In which department do you work at WBE?

I am the box manager at WBE Rijnsburg.

At which branch do you work?

WBE Rijnsburg.

What does your average working day look like? 

The average working day starts around 5:00 am. I often come to work by bike. I start the day with a little bit of sales. Then I start up the team in the box. I support where necessary for the rest of the day. This could be at the entry of the products or the product check.

Do you call the WBE Rijnsburg box? Then you usually get me on the phone. In addition, I do extra work like the credits and claims, stock differs and I arrange the days off of the employees in the box.

What do you like best about your job? 

I like it best when everything runs smoothly. When both staff and customers are satisfied and everything in the box runs smoothly.

What do you like least about your job? 

I think getting up early is the least fun!

What is your favorite product? Why? 

My favorite product is actually not just one. The blooming corner (Italian products) are my favorite products. This is because of all the vibrant colours and scents. Each product has its own distinctive scent.

Do you have any ambitions within WBE? 

I am now in the right place. But who knows, maybe someday a branch manager.