Simon Van Ipenburg
Project Manager
Simon is a project manager who started working at Beacon in 2017. With a background in software engineering, plastics engineering, ISO9001 quality management and project management, he’s equipped with practical knowledge and skills for managing the development of products. Since he joined Beacon, he has been working on a wide variety of projects like quality improvement of linoleum floor covering (Forbo Flooring), a gas hob appliance (ATAG) and a cheese tea dispensing machine (Royal Friesland Campina).
What’s the most interesting aspect of your job?
The most interesting aspect of my job is that you land in an organization with a unique range of products, with its own innovation process (or not at all) and a fresh set of people, having their own skillset and vision on leadership. In a very short time, consultants of Beacon are expected to calibrate within this new environment, kick-off the project and achieve the best result possible, on time, in budget and at the right quality. No matter the past experience and readily available knowledge, this deep dive period is always a challenging period, as first impressions can make or break.
The best thing about my job is working with a team, going through the social stages of introduction, conflicts, alignment, cooperation and friendship.
What has been your most challenging project to manage?
The biggest challenge so far has been the cheese tea machine development for Royal Friesland Campina. This project requires maximum commitment, ambition, accountability and efficiency in order to reach market introduction in time. The character of the project and the high energy of the team made the job both addictive and draining. Not only did we had to develop the product, we also had to build the organization and its supply chain from scratch. What a ride it was.
What do you like most about your
job?
The best thing about my job is working with a team, going through the social stages of introduction, conflicts, alignment, cooperation and friendship. Being able to empower people to help the project progress and eventually create something to be proud of as a team.
Interested in becoming a Project Manager or working at Beacon like Simon?