Marleen Suurd, Executive Secretary

‘It is precisely that combination of teamwork, professionalism and collegiality that makes me look forward to going to work every day’

What do you do at Agrifirm?

I have been working as an executive assistant at Agrifirm in the Specialties department since December 2024. I ensure that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes for my manager. From managing complex diaries and international travel to organising meetings and events; no two days are the same. It is precisely this variety that makes my job so enjoyable.

What gives you energy in your work?

What gives me energy is supporting others and making sure everything is well organised. I love to think ahead, anticipate problems and take the pressure off my manager. When everything runs smoothly and my manager can focus on their own work because I’ve sorted out the organisational aspects, that gives me a great sense of satisfaction. I also enjoy working with a wide variety of people, both within the Netherlands and internationally.

  • Could you tell us a bit about the team you work in? 

    What makes our team strong is that we genuinely look out for one another. Everyone supports their own manager(s), but we’re always on hand to help one another, share knowledge or offer a bit of input. That means you’re never left to do it on your own. We work hard, are committed to our work and are happy to go the extra mile when needed. At the same time, the atmosphere is open and informal, with plenty of scope for collaboration, humour and personal interaction.

  • What makes working at Agrifirm unique?

    What makes my role at Agrifirm special is the combination of being part of an international organisation and having strong ties to the agricultural sector. Although Agrifirm is a large organisation, it feels personal; you quickly feel at home. People are approachable, helpful and take an interest in one another. You are given trust and responsibility, which gives you the freedom to organise your work in your own way. What’s more, we’re all working towards the same goal: contributing to a sustainable food chain for future generations.

What are you proud of?

What I am most proud of is that I have over 25 years’ experience as an executive secretary within international organisations and can now put that knowledge and experience to good use at Agrifirm. I’m also proud of the relationships I build with colleagues, the trust that colleagues and managers place in me, and the contribution I make to the team’s success. My work often takes place behind the scenes, but that’s where I like to make a difference. If I can ensure that a manager can focus fully on their work by staying just one step ahead of them, then I’ve done my job well.
Business Support