Hans de Rooij

In 1975, De Rooij joined the company then known as Pleuger Nederland, where he remained until his retirement. The firm underwent numerous acquisitions over the years; De Rooij left the company in 2007. Throughout the long period from 1975 to 2001, he focused entirely on the sale of instruments within the laboratory sector. He began his career as a product specialist and concluded it as an account manager in 2007. Over the years, he sold a vast array of products. One of the highlights was the introduction of ion chromatography; De Rooij served as a specialist in this field for several years, generating demand by bringing groundbreaking, innovative equipment to the market. He frequently undertook training courses, particularly whenever a new, innovative product was developed and he wanted to learn everything about it. Notably, in 1982, he completed a business administration program through the collaborative course series in Utrecht.

De Rooij has been retired since 2007, but that does not mean he is no longer active professionally. He has about five clients and works 20 to 30 hours a week. On behalf of the KNCV, De Rooij provides young people with information and career advice, something he greatly enjoys doing.

De Rooij notes that every conversation is different. He is an experienced professional with whom people can share their stories. His opening question is often “Where do you live?”, followed by a list of interesting employers within a 50-kilometer radius. During the conversation, he also encourages people to consider whether their current job or sector is one in which they would want to remain active until retirement.

De Rooij specializes in the trade of laboratory instruments. He also has an extensive network.

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