MEET HUGH VEERSEMA
Always keen to keep moving and growing his impact, Hugh has spent 10 years with Qenos, starting as a Process Engineer and moving to a Category Lead role with a diverse portfolio. He loves the community feel at Qenos… and the fact that we impact on millions of people without them knowing it!
After undertaking vacation work in his third year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical), Hugh decided to join Qenos post-graduation. The opportunity to be hands on as a chemical engineer while living in Sydney was one Hugh didn’t want to pass up, especially in an environment where he could be challenged and make a real contribution. After spending 8 years in engineering roles, Hugh moved into category management before becoming a category lead.
“I’ve stayed with Qenos for 10 years because of the ability to move around and try new things in the business. From engineering, to manufacturing team leader, and now in the commercial arm of the business - there is plenty of opportunity here and a great knowledge exchange program between Qenos and our global owner, Bluestar. The diversity of things I get to be involved with is something I wouldn’t want to give up.”
What Hugh likes most about his day-to-day work is the ability to directly impact on business outcomes and be involved in interesting projects. A great day might include completing a vital negotiation or new equipment purchase, and finalising a contract that adds value to the business. Beyond that, it’s the collaborative culture that he finds so enjoyable.
“Right through the organisation, it’s a really positive place to work. Everyone at Qenos is friendly and helpful. They’re exceptionally knowledgeable about their areas and enjoy working together to get the best result.”
Hugh is highly motivated to drive the best commercial outcomes, contribute to long term sustainability and work with stakeholders to meet the needs of customers. He admits there can be challenges, including managing competing priorities and stepping into new areas, but he says that these are what bring him fulfilment.
“The challenges we face at Qenos are positive. Unlike other organisations, a challenge at Qenos means an opportunity to learn, improve and do something different. To succeed at Qenos you need to be flexible, resilient and open to unexpected changes.”
But what’s the most rewarding part of working at Qenos?
“I think it’s the actual impact of what we do! Knowing that people are coming into contact with our products at least 10 times a day without realising it is pretty rewarding. It’s good knowing we’re adding value to Australia’s natural resources as well.”
Led by our people, Qenos encourages a collaborative and open culture which Hugh and the entire team enjoy.
“There is a real community feel and we’re all willing to help one another. There are no politics here, which is refreshing.”
For people looking for diverse opportunities, working alongside likeminded colleagues who enjoy leading the way in Australian manufacturing, Hugh says that Qenos is the only place to be.
“Being able to walk out of the office and straight into our plants is really great. I can leave my desk and engage directly with our work and our impact. It’s an environment you’d be pressed to find anywhere else in Australia.”
If these things matter to you too, why not explore a career with Qenos?