Marc Geladi
Marc's adventure began about 34 years ago at Algeco Belgium. It all started on the work floor, from helping in the factory to installing modular units. Marc knows all there is to know at Algeco. Thanks to his many years of experience, he has developed top-level expertise which has allowed him to call himself Branch Operations Manager for more than 10 years. In his spare time, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, including the obligatory active skiing holiday.
"There is nothing better than having realistic goals and creating a stress-free working environment; these are two of the most important factors for leading a successful team."
How would you best describe your job?
As Branch Operations Manager, I am responsible for all operational aspects, including distribution, customer service, administration and human resources. On a daily basis, I manage a 14-member internal team, ensuring that all communication and the tasks to be carried out between the different departments (= Sales and Operations) run as smoothly and accurately as possible.
So, what does this mean in practice? Once a customer has set out the relevant needs and requirements in the first phase with the respective sales colleague, we review the feasibility of the request. This could include the stability of the site's subsoil, which materials are best to use, etc.
What qualifications do you think are needed to do the job well?
Experience and passion are the main components of my job. Having spent considerable time on the work floor myself, I am able to paint a very realistic picture of what is possible.
I have found that what is theoretically possible is not always actually possible. As a result of my experience on the work floor, I know where to make a difference.
- Have experience on the shop floor
- Be administratively and communicatively strong
- Excellent organisational skills
- Result-driven and a customer-focused approach
What makes your working day a perfect/successful day?
For me, a successful day involves my colleagues going home with a smile and all the realistic goals having been achieved. As far as I’m concerned, there is nothing better than working in an office where everyone feels at home.
How would your colleagues describe you?
I am often described as someone who is very sociable and helpful; I’m not afraid to roll up my sleeves and, as the saying goes, "Teamwork makes the dream work".
It is hugely important to have a well-functioning team where everyone believes in themselves but also in the other team members. This confidence in each other and in oneself is extremely important in terms of achieving the best team performance.
Which other department would you like to work in?
Since my daughter is about to graduate in Marketing and we have a very creative internal Marketing team at Algeco, I would like to spend a day in their shoes.
What tip would you like to pass on to readers?
"Impossible doesn’t exist". Anything is possible as long as you have the right mindset, but it is important to set achievable goals for yourself. With the correct mindset and the necessary daring and willpower, no goal is unrealistic. Believe in yourself first, then others will believe in you.
What does Algeco mean to you?
I have spent quite a long time working at Algeco Belgium and I wouldn't trade my current position for anything. A place where you can enjoy your job is pretty much perfect. Algeco Belgium is an excellent employer that values the mental wellbeing of its employees.