HANS DE JAEGER, BRANCH PRESIDENT HONDA BENELUX

From collecting small miniature cars, having an above-average interest in automobiles and particularly enjoying getting out and about by car, Hans de Jaeger, Branch President of Honda Benelux, has come to the right place. Who got De Jaeger from A to B during his career? Text: Mical Joseph
Image: Honda Benelux

What was your very first job?

"My father worked at a furniture company in Belgium and on weekends I would clean the machines in the workroom and collect the company's old wood. I was hard working at a young age and then I had several side jobs in different sectors."

What did you used to aspire to as a young adult?

"I aspired to a life where I could accomplish great things together with people, and I always enjoyed connecting with others. So after high school, I trained as a social worker with a specialty in Human Resource. After my studies, I supported companies in start-up and worked as human resources director at a textile company. Until 28 years ago: I got the opportunity to work at Honda."

How did you end up in your current job?

"Actually, I just stumbled upon an HR vacancy from Honda in a regional newspaper that I could relate to. I was hired and traveled to different countries such as Dubai, Poland and Italy where I ran the after-sales service, human resources and operations. Three years ago I started as Branch President of Honda Benelux. As you can hear, I have been with Honda for a long time and my experience abroad has really added value to my career! I learned so much and came into contact with many different cultures, which has been good for my development."

Honda has two offices in the Benelux, in Capelle aan de IJsel and in Brussels. What do you think is the biggest difference between the Flemish and Dutch employees?

"The well-known difference, of course, is that Belgians are a little more reserved and the Dutch are a lot more direct. That makes it extra interesting and fun and at the end of the ride, after a process of different approaches, these obstacles are broken down."

As Branch President, what are the most important values for you?

"Being a listening ear, working with people, passing on expertise and taking the organization to the next level is key in this role."

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Did a wheelbarrow, mentor or inspiration teach you these aspects?

"I obtained these aspects partly organically and partly through the organization. Over the years I attended some good global leadership seminars, after which I came into contact with several Honda executives. In addition, the right people came my way and that good fortune took me further. These people believed in me, gave me opportunities and also tolerated me making mistakes from time to time.

But to be honest, my number one wheelbarrow is still my wife, because no matter how many opportunities I got or people I met, if I didn't have the support of the home front, I never would have gotten this far."

What is your greatest passion in your profession?

"When we have worked on a project for a long time and a plan comes together, I am very pleased. I also get my energy from contacting different people, both inside and outside Honda."

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And ... which bolide are you driving?

"I drive a Honda, of course. To be exact, in the Honda CRV Hybrid."

What has been the biggest learning moment in your career?

"My biggest learning moment has surely been the moment I realized that I can't do everything on my own. Even if a project is super well thought out and original, you always need your fellow man. Translating an idea into practice is something you do together."

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

"Go after your dreams, have respect and try to do something for society. You will get so much in return!"

Have you been a wheelbarrow for anyone?

"For (young) people who show their own ambition and also want to realize their wishes, I am always ready. I like to give advice and be a listening ear for this group. As said: you have to reach out for yourself."