Meet the people | From Finance to Operations Controller: Marcella’s Impressive Career

In 2007, Marcella took her first steps at AWL, shortly after completing her education. What began as a role in the Finance department evolved over the years into a versatile and impressive career within the company.

An Unexpected Turn
Marcella started her career in the Finance department. However, after about a year, it became clear that there wasn't enough work for a full-time position. "I didn't want to get bored, and I preferred to stay at AWL because I found it a great company to work for." When HR approached her for the role of Executive Assistant, she decided to seize the opportunity. "It was not something I had in mind at all, but I thought: why not? If it doesn't work out, I can always look further."

For ten years, she supported the management and took charge of the secretariat and the canteen as a team leader. "In those ten years, I was really able to develop myself as if I were studying."

The Big Step to America
In 2018, a new challenge came her way: the position of Operations Manager at AWL's US branch. "When I saw the profile, I immediately thought: that's me! It was a huge step, but in those ten years, I had learned so much that I was ready for this step." She moved to the US with her family and ran the operation there for two years and three months. "It was a leap into the unknown but an opportunity I couldn't pass up." Just as the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, she returned to the Netherlands and took on the role of team leader R&D. "It was an incredibly educational time, but I missed the dynamics of operations."

Back To Operations and Back to the US
After nine months as team leader for the R&D department, Marcella got the chance to go back to America, where she worked for another seven months. "It was special because everyone in the Netherlands was in lockdown while I could work there fully." In 2021, she returned to the Netherlands for good and took on the role of Operations Controller, a position she still fulfills with great passion today.

The Role of Operations Controller
As an Operations Controller, Marcella oversees all ongoing projects within AWL's various branches worldwide. "Operations control has a guiding role and acts independently. It is a continuous search for the best solution for the entire AWL Group." Additionally, she plays a key role in monitoring project milestones and supports team leaders and Business Unit managers with the so-called 'delivery performance' of milestones. "What do I like most about this role? I know exactly what's happening within AWL and can contribute to the bigger picture. I have no specific Business Unit interests, which makes me independent and helps me give objective advice."

Greatest Pride: The Step to America
Of all the steps in her career, Marcella is most proud of her time in the US. "It was a huge step outside my comfort zone. My husband quit his job, we sold our house, and I had to prove myself in a completely new environment. But that experience taught me a lot about myself and my abilities."

Lessons and Advice
Marcella emphasizes the importance of looking ahead, learning, and daring to be vulnerable. "I learned a lot by simply asking and listening to the professionals around me. My advice? Stay calm and take on the challenge step by step together. Looking ahead is the key to staying in control." Her creativity and problem-solving skills, partly developed during her time in America, still help her daily in her work.

A Career Full of Growth
With 18 years at AWL, Marcella has experienced how versatile a career within one company can be. "I never thought I would stay here so long, but thanks to the opportunities I received, I remain continuously engaged." Her story shows how ambition, courage, and eagerness to learn can keep taking you a step further. The DNA of AWL fits Marcella perfectly: "AWL is a wonderful company that breathes technology, and that is inspiring even if you originally don't have much to do with it. The sense of togetherness is palpable; everyone works well together and feels connected. That AWL invests in people is also an important reason for me to stay here for so long."

Marcella's journey at AWL is a testament to how dedication, adaptability, and a passion for growth can lead to a fulfilling and dynamic career.