| Name Date of birth Study Graduated Joined Zanders in Position/department |
: Jonathan Tomlinson : 27 May 1981 : Masters in Finance Brussels, CFA London : 2009 : 2009 : consultant, Organization, Processes, Systems (OPS) |
“Nearly every week you have the excitement that comes with a new job”
Jonathan Tomlinson, who has worked as a consultant in the Organization, Processes and Systems (OPS) department since August 2009, had just completed his Masters in finance when a friend introduced him to Zanders in August 2009.
Jonathan explains that it was the dynamic nature of consultancy that first attracted him to the company: “I liked the idea of consultancy because sitting at the same desk every day doesn't appeal to me, and Zanders is a changing environment. Anyone with a mindset like mine needs to be constantly challenged, so one of the big draws at Zanders is how the consultants have to adapt to changes, working with diverse clients in different countries. You never feel that you are in a rut. Nearly every week you have the excitement that comes with a new job.”
With a strong academic background, Jonathan had little experience of using his expertise in practical business scenarios before he joined Zanders. Yet during his first week he was assigned to a project providing maintenance and advice on treasury best practice to Heineken. He says: “This was a challenge at first. However, my colleagues have been very supportive. I've gained a practical understanding of the treasury environment and am now confident in applying that knowledge.”
As a South African national and having studied in Brussels and London, Jonathan was also new to the Netherlands but, thanks to the company's social culture and the friendliness of colleagues, he has settled in quickly. He notes: “I came to work at Zanders in the Netherlands without knowing anyone and people have been very open and friendly. I found it very easy to adjust and make the transition. Evenings out and dinner after work with colleagues have helped me a lot. I absolutely love golf and I get to play regularly with my Zanders colleagues, including Chris Zanders, and we sometimes play with clients as well – it helps in building relationships.”
The company's strategy and culture are further reasons why Jonathan feels comfortable about his work. “Here you are rewarded for your hard work and performance, which is measured according to client satisfaction. I also really believe in Zanders' strategy for the future – they want to develop in international markets, which is great for me as I enjoy travel and have already traveled widely in my role here. I was recently lucky enough to get to go back home – for work – to South Africa.”
