Date of publication: Jul 02, 2018
Roy Timmerman
- Vice President International
- Club Demonstration Services www.clubdemo.com
Date of birth: Feb. 6, 1969
Hometown: Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 17 (as of July 2018)
Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?
During my MBA, Japan was still in the midst of the bubble economy and because of my post-graduate focus on “Modern Japanese Studies,” I got an opportunity to study in Japan for a year. It was a great experience to come here and get immersed in the culture.
Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.
The founder of our company always reminded us that: “We don’t own any factories, inventory nor real estate, the only asset we have is people. So, hire the best and smartest people and make sure they can do their job.” That always turns out to be so true.
Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?
I have been lucky to have worked with many different startup organizations. It is great to see that these teams and many people in these different areas have grown and become more successful. Many of them are now in major leadership positions.
Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?
There are still so many things I'd like to explore that are on my bucket list. I might not have enough time to do them all, but I will continue to try and discover as many as I can.
Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?
Be pragmatic and open-minded. Go out and explore. Be prepared and expect that things can be different. Like any other country, Japan offers a lot of unique, wonderful and different experiences. Some things might require a little extra time and persistence, but in the end, they are worthwhile and great experiences.
Last updated: Jul 02, 2018