A new chapter for Bureau Fris
Change is a constant in the business world, and at Bureau Fris, it is no different. After playing a vital role at Bureau Fris for over 17 years, co-owner Augusta has decided to pursue a new path. In this blog, Augusta Zweekhorst and Stephanie Groot-Hecker share their thoughts on this decision and look to the future of Fris.
Experiencing highs and lows together
Augusta, "I have been part of Bureau Fris for 17 years, three of which as an employee and the last 14 as co-owner. In that period, Stef and I have been through a lot. We have built a wonderful company, but we have also faced tough challenges. From the euro crisis to the credit crunch to the recent corona crisis, we have had to build a completely new team at least three times. We have closed branches and opened new ones. In short: the highs and lows that are inherent to entrepreneurship.'
An emotional step
Stephanie, "When Augusta shared her decision in early May, I was shocked and surprised. It almost feels like a divorce. We worked together intensively for 17 years, every day, full-time. Together, we built this wonderful company. But I understand Augusta's choice and know her well enough to know she made this decision with deliberation.
Looking for the right replacement
Augusta, "After the initial shock subsided, we sat down together every Monday to discuss the next steps in detail. We undertook many actions in the meantime. We held conversations with various people, I wrote the transference down on paper and noted point by point what needed to be done. Now we are at the stage where Stef is actively looking for a suitable replacement for me.'
Someone to continue building together
Stephanie, "I see huge potential in Fris. There are still an awful lot of opportunities to explore and exploit. Especially now that we are the second-largest in our field. But there has to be a replacement for Augusta. I don't want to carry that responsibility alone, I need someone to complement me in certain areas. Augusta, for example, is highly skilled in HR and finance, while that is not my expertise, nor is it where my strengths lie. You have to be honest about that. My preference is for a new partner, someone who is willing to take over Augusta's shares. That would be ideal. If that doesn't prove feasible, another option is to hire a managing director. Someone who combines the skills of a people manager with entrepreneurship has an affinity with HR and finance and can take the lead with me to continue the success of Fris. The idea is to work together and leverage each other's strengths. A merger is something that I would certainly consider. This would make us bigger and perhaps even more attractive to our clients.
Young and dynamic team
Augusta, "The team at Fris is young and dynamic, with an average age of around 30. My successor must be someone who fits well within this culture and is willing to fully commit to the future of Fris. 'The age of my successor is not that important, however, someone must be young at heart and bring the right energy. Possess a growth mindset. That's what the team deserves.'
Are you ready for a wonderful new challenge?
Are you an experienced, down-to-earth, entrepreneurial, and positive-minded manager who enjoys being part of an enthusiastic and hectic team of young professionals at a company where you can make a difference every day? Together, we can shape the future of Bureau Fris and continue our beautiful path of growth and innovation. If this appeals to you, let's find out if there's a match.
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