Meet the people | Johannes van Dorp: From trainee to Business Unit Manager

In our ‘Meet The People’ series, we introduce team members and share their personal journey within AWL. This time, we’re putting the spotlight on Johannes van Dorp, who has grown from trainee to Business Unit Manager since starting at AWL NL.
Talk to Johannes and you’ll notice it right away: energy, curiosity, and a natural talent for connecting people. Today, he’s a Business Unit Manager, leading a multidisciplinary team. His AWL journey began more than twelve years ago, when he joined the company as a graduation intern.

Curiosity as a driving force
Johannes studied Industrial Engineering with a background in Electrical Engineering. “I wanted to understand more than just the technical side. What fascinated me was the reasoning behind the technology: why do you actually apply a technical solution?” That question pushed him to zoom out - to oversee processes and understand the rationale behind technical decisions.

He found that broader perspective at AWL. After completing his internship, he started as a trainee in Supply Chain Management and Project Management. “I walked into AWL and was immediately excited by the atmosphere, the technology, and the ambition. For me, it was clear: AWL is the place for dynamism and innovation.”

A deep dive in Germany
His first project was anything but standard. What started as “two weeks on location” in Germany turned into a stay of two and a half years. “I didn’t speak a word of German when I arrived, but within six months, I was fluent.” The project was complex: setting up a production line at the customer's site, with tight deadlines and many stakeholders involved - and Johannes was at the front line.

That period became a steep learning curve. Johannes learned how to build a team, create and maintain customer relationships, and, most importantly, how to earn trust. “I told my family I’d be gone for a short project, but that ‘short’ project became an adventure that shaped my entire career.”

Trust and responsibility
At AWL, Johannes was given the space to take initiative early on. “If you have a good idea, you can run with it. Nobody holds you back with ‘what if it goes wrong?’ - instead, they encourage you: ‘why wouldn’t you try it?’” That trust, combined with the freedom to learn and grow, is, according to him, typical of AWL. “You can do anything - but you’re the one behind the wheel.”

Coaching played a key role in his growth. Johannes was mentored by Martijn Loots, a seasoned colleague and mentor. “He taught me the tricks of the trade. Especially when it came to communication: how do you motivate a team, how do you interact with a customer, and how do you make decisions that really matter?”

From sales to operations: no two days are the same
As Business Unit Manager, Johannes bridges the gap between sales and operations. He ensures project continuity, aligns customer needs with internal processes, and coordinates daily with various stakeholders to maintain seamless operations. “What do I enjoy most? The entrepreneurship. The freedom to shape the future of AWL together with the Business Unit.”

But discovering and nurturing talent also gives him energy. “It’s gratifying to see someone’s strengths and know how to put them to good use. When you do that well, synergy happens - and you can feel it.”

Learning by doing
His biggest career lesson? “Make impactful choices and don’t be afraid to dive in. But also, don’t forget to look back sometimes and take pride in what you’ve achieved. Share those successes with your team - so you can take the next step together.”

For new colleagues or anyone considering a career in technology, he has one piece of advice: “Embrace the adventure. Let yourself be inspired by experienced colleagues - they’re truly willing to help, as long as you take the initiative.”

People first
For Johannes, the strength of AWL lies not only in its technology or projects, but above all in its focus on people, on and off the shop floor.
“In my personal life, I faced a situation that required more attention at home,” Johannes shares. “AWL adapted immediately and without hesitation. That level of support really touched me.”

That experience still shapes his leadership style today: “It influenced how I lead. I believe colleagues perform better when they feel seen and supported. And that starts with listening and genuine attention.”

The essence of AWL? Johannes doesn’t hesitate: “It’s a fun, fascinating, and innovative international company - with great people and a fantastic atmosphere.”