At Van Lanschot Kempen, we believe that your talent is our greatest asset. Attracting new talent is essential, but retaining and nurturing our existing talent is equally important. Today, we share the inspiring career development story of Judith Hof, whose journey from Marketing to the Client Monitoring team within Van Lanschot Kempen sets an example of our commitment to internal mobility. We strive to provide opportunities that allow our colleagues to develop and grow into new roles within the company. This approach not only helps us retain valuable knowledge and skills but also allows our employees to further their careers in a supportive environment.
What is your background?
Hi, I'm Judith Hof. I started my career in journalism, which gave me a strong foundation in storytelling, research and communication. However, I soon discovered a passion for marketing, where I could apply these skills in creative ways. I spent several years as a content marketer, working with Knab and a marketing agency, before joining Van Lanschot Kempen in October 2022. In my role, I managed the website, created engaging content, and conducted interviews. While I enjoyed marketing, I realized I was eager to explore new challenges that aligned more closely with my long-term goals.
Why did you join Van Lanschot Kempen, and what led to your internal move?
I joined Van Lanschot Kempen as a senior content marketer in the Marketing department, drawn by the exciting growth opportunities and the chance to collaborate with a dynamic team. Although I was initially enthusiastic about marketing, I found myself seeking a role with more structure and clarity. This curiosity led me to explore other opportunities within the company, where I could continue to grow and contribute in meaningful ways.
How did the process of moving internally go?
I had a couple conversations with different managers of various departments, which ultimately led to my successful movement. In my search for a more fulfilling role, I discovered an opportunity for a Customer Due Diligence Analyst position in the Client Monitoring team and worked with HR to formalize the transition. Even though I didn't have specific experience in this area, HR encouraged me to explore the opportunity. The process was smooth and swift, and I started my new role in August 2024, which was just a few months after initiating the change.
Why do you think internal throughflow is important?
I think internal mobility is crucial because it allows employees to find roles that truly fit their skills and interests. For me, being able to move from marketing to the Client Monitoring team was a game-changer. It really showed me that Van Lanschot Kempen values its employees' growth and is willing to support them in finding the right fit within the company. This kind of flexibility not only helps retain talent but also keeps us engaged and motivated. My experience shows the value of a supportive work environment that encourages employees to pursue roles they love. This has kept me engaged and turned me into an enthusiastic advocate for the company.
Do you have any tips for other colleagues who would also like to make a move?
My advice to colleagues considering a move within the company is to be proactive and explore the various departments and roles available. Reach out to managers for informal conversations, or "cups of coffee," to learn more about potential opportunities. It's important to take the initiative and be open to new experiences, even if they seem outside your current expertise. My journey showed me that with the right mindset and support, internal mobility can lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding career.