The ROI story of Michael de Ruiter
Michael works at Ojah in the role of Chief Financial Officer. What has this journey given him and what is his contribution to Ojah’s ambition? This is Michael de Ruiter’s ROI story.
What were you looking for in a next step?
In my previous job, I enjoyed it for a long time. The pressure got higher but the work remained the same. This caused the challenges and learning opportunities to diminish for me. As a result, I was not comfortable in my own skin. At a certain point, the vacancy of CFO at Ojah came my way. In the back of my mind I had been thinking; what elements should my future job contain? I have worked in the food sector in the past and gained a lot of experience in it, which I would like to bring to a new position. I also want to unite myself in the product, so not a box shaker but something you can talk about with family and friends. In addition, sustainability will become even more important in the future so that aspect also appealed to me. But also the travelability as well as the human character in the organization. Ojah is a relatively small company compared to my previous employer but part of a larger concern. This role was a new step in my career. Previously I have watched along and now in this role I get to do it myself.
The task at hand for Michael? Together with the CEO, you form the connection with the international board and give them a clear view on the development of the organization. In addition to being ultimately responsible for Finance, you are also the strategic advisor to the CEO.
How did you experience the process at Velde?
During the course, among other things, an assessment was done with me. The analytical ability, the interview, the video recording with a statement. That is really next level in the program compared to previous programs I have been through. Just by singling out your personality, what type of CFO I would be and recognizing yourself in the bigger picture. That does bring me to the point of looking back at the assessment again. What did I get out of this in my current role?
-Michael de Ruiter
What was your expectation and did it come true?
The company as laid out by Velde has become 100% true. I made a conscious decision to do so. I feel at home and welcome. I have certainly found what I was looking for. What I was told in terms of culture is really true. I was looking for this but it took a lot of getting used to during the first six months. I come from a tight organization with a very different culture. The first six months I sometimes ate myself up because it sometimes felt rudderless when you walk out of a meeting without a concrete plan.
During the application process, a plan of action was drawn up in line with my and Ojah’s ambitions. Goals for the first three, six and 12 months were set and evaluated as a result. The company had grown extremely fast in the two years prior. Putting structure in place and getting the organization ready to achieve further growth was necessary. The market for plant-based meat substitutes showed a different development as of the end of 2022. Some of the plans could therefore be shelved.
What is your ROI?
On a personal level, I have become much calmer; I feel myself fitter since working here. I now set my own policies and stress levels. In my previous job, it was running from deadline to deadline. The piece of humanity, respect and collegiality is very positive for me. Because it’s a small company you know everyone. You’re one of the. And I love being part of this.
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