“Unbelievable—10 years. It really doesn’t feel like 10 years,” says Robbert van Bussel. And that’s not surprising, because when you keep challenging yourself and growing, time flies. What once began in a completely different role has grown into a multifaceted career in which he combines his technical expertise with a customer-focused approach. Robbert loves complex geospatial challenges and is always looking for smart solutions for his clients. We asked him to share his experiences and highlights from the past 10 years with us.
"IMAGEM like a family. I can drop by anyone's desk, whether it's work-related or not."
— Robbert van Bussel, Defense Business Consultant
Please describe your job.
I am a Business Consultant for the Ministry of Defense. I ensure that the contract is properly implemented and that they use our software effectively, provide training and workshops, and assist with other inquiries. I serve as the primary point of contact and project manager for complex projects. It’s a mix of technology and sales—a really great combination.
What is your background?
I once started training to become a lab technician, but I didn’t like it. After that, I worked temporarily at a bakery, where I realized, “This isn’t for me.” At the open house at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, I came across a 3D map of the Rotterdam Marathon. I thought it was so cool that I wanted to learn more about it. Eventually, I enrolled in the Geodesy & Geoinformatics program and started my graduation internship at the Ministry of Defense, where I came into contact with IMAGEM. I started in support, and the rest is history!
What do you like about working at IMAGEM?
It feels like one big family. I can drop in on anyone, whether it’s work-related or not. It’s a smaller company, which works much better for me. And there’s a lot of freedom to plan my own schedule, which is ideal as the father of a young family. The workspace in the villa is great, and if I lived closer, I’d definitely be in the office more often. I sometimes miss having my colleagues around when I work from home.
What achievements are you most proud of?
My career progression at IMAGEM. I started in Support, moved on to become a technical consultant, and eventually became a Business Consultant. What makes me especially proud is that I’ve continued to grow professionally.
What attracted you to this job?
The combination of working at a smaller company and the job itself. During my internship at a large company, I noticed that there was too much distance between colleagues. Here at IMAGEM completely different.
What are your fondest memories with the team?
Events like Make Geospatial Matter, which we organize together. We handle the entire process—from preparation to execution—as a team, and afterward we go out for a nice meal. It really feels like an achievement for the whole team. But also fun outings like sheep herding. It’s all about doing things together and having fun. That’s what makes it special.
What's your favorite project right now?
I am very proud of the Geoportal we currently have up and running at the Ministry of Defense. In addition, there are many other exciting and diverse projects that constantly challenge me.
A few years ago, I worked on a technically challenging project for a water board, in which I had to map the entire province using aerial photographs so that a 3D model could be created. It was quite a puzzle—you couldn’t afford to make a single mistake—but I managed to pull it off, and that’s very rewarding.
Who on the team would you like to switch jobs with?
With Tjip! He’s always full of ideas, and he actually knows how to bring them to life. I think that’s really impressive, and I have a lot of respect for him.
What was the first thing you learned at the company?
Above all, I learned what it’s like to enjoy going to work and discover new things there every day. At Support, I got to know the company and the clients well, and I was able to delve into the software and technical aspects. After a few years, I had gained enough experience to move into a new role and began visiting clients more and more often.
What three words would you use to describe your job?
Varied. Interesting. Challenging.
Who was your first desk mate? And who is it now?
Dennis, Tjip, and Wim. Back then, we were based in Capelle aan den IJssel. Now I’m part of the Sales team, and we share an office in Apeldoorn.
Tell us something about yourself that not many people know.
Hmm… what don’t many people know about me? I think I’m pretty open, but something fewer people might know is that I’ve been playing korfball since I was six. The best part about this sport is the social aspect and playing alongside both boys and girls. Everyone is treated with respect, both on and off the field, and you make lots of friends—both male and female—very quickly. “I’m very passionate, but I can accept it when we lose fairly—as long as everyone gives it their all.”
If you could change one thing about the company, what would it be?
Commute time! It would be great if we all had a ten-minute commute. Then I’d be in the office much more often, because I always enjoy chatting with my colleagues face-to-face. So I’d love to pick up this beautiful office building and move it to the other side of the country. But then all my colleagues would have to come along too!
Is there anything else you'd like to say?
I hope to IMAGEM working with IMAGEM for many years to come. We have some exciting challenges ahead, and I look forward to doing my part.
