Meet Geoffrey Courtens – Operator at Bekina Compounds

Today we’re turning the spotlight on Geoffrey Courtens, Operatorat Bekina Compounds. He has been part of the Bekina family since June 2018. After a short break for personal reasons, he returned in April 2024.  In only a short period of time, he has already been given many opportunities and has explored various aspects of production. He is already looking forward to what his future at Bekina Compounds will hold. 

I started as an operator in the extrusion department at Bekina Compounds, but recently, you’ll mostly find me working in the preparation area. I operate the mixer and rollers on the mixing line.  Everyone has their own line and responsibility. However, I’ve had the chance to work in several areas, jumping in wherever needed. I’m currently training to operate mixing line 2, which adds even more variety and dynamism to my job. I’m currently training to operate mixing line 2, which adds even more variety and dynamism to my job. You’re constantly busy, and I love that! 

My brother-in-law worked at Bekina Boots and I heard they were still looking for new colleagues. I had already heard great things about the work atmosphere and how enjoyable it is to work here. The rumours were definitely true! I previously worked as a painter, so this job was completely new to me – I had no prior experience in production. But I  liked the idea of a new challenge, and it turned out to be a great decision because I feel completely at home here.  I initially saw this as another new experience in my life, but I’ve already learned so much in such a short time! 

Definitely the connection with my colleagues – there’s a fantastic work atmosphere. Our department head and shift supervisor, the two Kevins, really go the extra mile to build strong relationships with us, both professionally and personally. They are open to conversation and discussion and I appreciate that. I always try to be flexible when it comes to switching workstations or adjusting my shifts, and in return, I get the same flexibility from them. It’s a give-and-take situation, built on mutual understanding, and that makes a big difference.  I always come to work feeling good.  

I am quite proud of everything I’ve had the chance to do and learn in such a short time. The opportunities I’ve had to grow and work in different areas of production mean a lot to me. It allows me to keep learning, and I’m not tied to just one specific task or place. If you want to learn, you’re given the opportunity to do so. This keeps the job exciting, because you’re not doing the same thing day in and day out. 

Without a doubt, the great work atmosphere and strong sense of camaraderie at Bekina Compounds.   I also love the flexibility and variety within my role. Personally, I see the shift system as a big advantage because it makes it easier to balance work and home life. It provides good value for money.

First of all, the excellent facilities, like the newly renovated locker rooms and showers. Then there are the many employee initiatives, such as sports activities and free fruit for all staff – it’s great that they offer these things! I also really appreciate the little gestures during the holidays, like the treats we get for Sinterklaas. It shows that we matter and aren’t just numbers, which is not the case in all companies. Events like the Family Day at Pairi Daiza are also fantastic – my little one had such a great time!  All these things show that Bekina truly cares about its employees. And that appreciation translates into motivation – the way they treat us makes you want to come to work even more. Finally, I also find it a great advantage that Bekina offers health insurance for the whole family. Sometimes it’s the small things that make all the difference. 

I’ve already recommended Bekina to some friends and am trying to convince them to come and work here. Some people have a certain perception of working in production, thinking it might be repetitive or less dynamic, but I find working at Bekina Compounds both fascinating and diverse. Rubber has so many different applications, and it’s amazing to see where it all ends up. You can really take pride in in contributing to the final product. I’m also quite detail-oriented, and that comes in handy here. There are certain quality expectations to meet, but I see that as a good thing! 

To my future colleagues, I’d say: ‘Take the leap!’ Taking the Next Step Even if you have little production experience, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. I have no regrets about choosing this job as an operator at Bekina Compounds. In fact, the best proof of how much I enjoy working here is that after taking a break for a few years, I chose to come back! 

Would you like to be part of the Bekina family like Geoffrey? Then take a look at the Bekina job page and who knows, maybe we’ll meet soon!