Jan Haalboom has a degree in Business Administration and has always worked in the green sector. Before he joined Barenbrug, he gained professional experience as an export manager for Pokon Nuturado. He spent seven years working in the consumer horticulture sector, mainly in exports of fertilizers and pot plants.

Jan's passion for grass began at an early age: his grandfather had a farm where he spent a lot of time as a child. He emphasizes the importance of working in the agricultural sector: “I like to contribute to the global food supply and add something to the world. The grass that Barenbrug produces is the basis for dairy and beef production. In the end, cows feed people. Food supply is very important if you look at how fast the world’s population is growing at the moment.”

Passion for Barenbrug

Diversity is something that appeals to Jan as well. The agricultural sector in which Barenbrug is rooted is very big and challenging. In his role as export manager, he has to keep up with different cultures, climates, operating procedures and methods. Each country or market demands a different approach and has different needs. “It is very satisfying to be able to meet these needs as a Dutch company,” says Jan.

Jan concludes: “There is a great atmosphere at Barenbrug. It is a family business that has existed for 115 years. It is awesome to work for a company with such a long history and with colleagues who all have a ‘yellow heart’. Together we form the ‘Barenbrug family’. I hope that I will be able to continue working for Barenbrug for a very long time.