As a Strategic Procurement Specialist, Gijs Hoefnagels makes sure the right materials are in the right place at the right time, and under the right conditions. He works closely with our suppliers of Third Party Equipment (e.g. robotic arms, stretch wrappers or pallet labellers) and negotiates the best possible terms to build strong, strategic partnerships. This gives his colleagues the tools they need to offer projects to our customers in a smooth and professional way.

What is the most important skill you have developed at CSi?
“Over the past few years, I’ve developed into a more independent, structured, and determined buyer. I’ve gained more communication and collaboration skills, which I can use to build stronger relationships with colleagues and suppliers. I started at CSi 3.5 years ago as a junior in the procurement department, and I’m still learning from my colleagues every day. You join with a solid foundation of skills, and then you continue to build on them. For example, I’ve broadened my legal background, completed the NEVI 1 course, and have now started NEVI 2.
Since CSi became part of the Mpac Group, we’ve had the opportunity to apply these skills more broadly across the group – a great challenge and opportunity to further deepen my expertise in procurement.”

What makes this particular role at this company so enjoyable?
“The diversity, the colleagues, and the human factor! Every day brings new surprises. One moment you’re working on a contract with a supplier, and the next you’re dealing with critical challenges in a project, requiring quick coordination with both the project team and the supplier. This means you need to be flexible and not afraid to face a challenge.
I really enjoy solving problems together in the operational side of things, while also contributing to strategic improvements and structure within the procurement department. It’s also rewarding to build strong relationships with the right suppliers, who contribute to the success of our projects, and to explore how we can strengthen and improve each other.”

How does your work contribute to the larger company mission?
“I aim to make other people’s work easier and more efficient. For example, I provide the System Sales Engineers with tools that help them create quotes faster and more easily. And for the System Integration Engineers, I help streamline communication with suppliers. Also, I try to reduce risks by formalising agreements with suppliers. These agreements make it easier for my colleagues to work with the suppliers, helping our projects run smoothly and efficiently. In the end, that also benefits the customer, and that’s what I enjoy about my work.”