Employee Story - Erik in 't Groen
Kim Wessels
Erik joined VA-Imaging inspired by its rapid growth and dynamic approach. As Sales Director, he leads a global team, values vibrant teamwork, and celebrates quick wins—like landing a major client in 24 hours. He thrives in the inclusive, ever-changing culture and encourages others to join.
Table of contents
Why I Joined VA-Imaging
So, it's the historical data of Get Cameras (previous name of VA-Imaging), and I thought it was really nice how they were doing. So, I knew that Gaspar started in 2017 with only one person, then it went to two people. Then he hired a guy that I already knew at the time. So, I always followed what they were doing and how they were doing it, so this is the reason I contacted Gaspar. We only talked for one hour, and then we agreed on the position. It was really quick.
The reason I joined was that we, with the knowledge I have about the market, could easily start in the business development role. In November this was the original position which changed in too more: sales and coaching role beginning of this year. As the feedback was positive after some months, the role now is Sales Director, responsible for all sales within VA-Imaging.
My Role and Daily Work
The role is the role of the sales director basically leading all those salespeople or the account managers, as they are called here. Currently twelve people, two in the US, couple in Germany. The rest is here in Eindhoven. I oversee the sales globally, I would say. The typical day is also a variation in those locations, so I always have contacted at least one American, one German and Eindhoven people. So, I take care of the sales budget, targets, and all activities in HubSpot. I would take everything related to sales in general.
It depends how a typical day would look like, but it can be zero meetings to the full day. Today is a typical example of which sounded like it was an easy day and ended up in seven meetings. So, you should be flexible, that is the bottom line.
A Proud Achievement
Aitor and I recently did a quick win, which was with the company in Norway, who came to us and had no experience with VA-Imaging. In 24 hours, we helped them out with applications. We made a quotation for a prototype series of ten pieces, and we've got an order. This was all done in 24 hours.
The potential for this project was huge, so yes, we were very proud of this. It was a team effort with Aitor, that's also worth mentioning. It was his knowledge, and my knowledge combined.
Team Culture at VA-Imaging
The team culture is really like almost unlimited. I am old, but I feel younger at VA-Imaging. So, it is like this, it's a vibrant atmosphere. Not one single day is the same which I really like because when things are the same it is boring. Sometimes I do miss the opportunity to talk to people of my age, to be honest. So, although I still like music and several sorts of music, I am not that much into dance or hardcore, but that's on the personal level. Also, there is much room for improvement in sales. So, that's also a challenge, but it's something I really like.
What I really feel is the enormous behavior of team spirit. We know what our goal is, and everybody is doing his or her part to get there. You are a particularly good example of this. You were not here half a year ago, and maybe you still have the intern sticker, but you certainly did much more than just an intern. I don't have the feeling that day we treat you as a not equal.
This is the good thing about VA-Imaging that whether you come in, as an intern or employee, everybody is treated the same. We don't know where this ends or how it ends but is also really nice stuff we see.
Supporting Our Mission
Just try to do my part and to share my experience, so that hopefully help. I don't want to pinpoint into one specific direction. I just do my part.
I can look at some requests in five seconds, and I already know what they are asking. It is like this slogan of Mastercard, it is priceless. I cannot put it into better words. It's much needed, I guess.
A Memorable Moment
Well, here on the third floor of the Oasis café I had already few memorable moments. So, I think every team adventure we have had so far was a really nice one. If I think of the nice things, I think of the third floor, Oasis, where we should have a drink or eat. Whether it was Easter or last week with Mortiz (Goodbye party for Moritz). I would say, the third floor Oasis is the place to be.
Advice for Newcomers
Just do it! We are a serious enterprise where fun is a part of the job. Let’s say if you really like team spirit, and you can cope with the fact that every day is different - that is certainly a challenge for new hires!
Benas Liniauskas
Operations Assistant & Intern Supervisor
Drawn by VA-Imaging’s welcoming community, Benas found his internship rewarding and memorable, especially attending a major industry exhibition. Transitioning to account manager and now operations, he values teamwork and hands-on impact.
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