David Martineau and Son Pham have successful careers with SThree brand Progressive in the Netherlands. David is a Consultant with IT Permanent and Son is the Team Manager. They are both ambitious and want to continue to build their careers alongside being dedicated fathers. They talk to us about the work/life balance and flexibility that SThree gives them.
Why did you choose a career with SThree?
David Martineau
David had three main reasons – the possibility to fast-track your career, the freedom to be entrepreneurial and the way people respect each other.
David explains, “Firstly, I was inspired by the amount of ‘home grown’ management in the business with many Directors starting their careers as Associates and working their way up the ladder.
Secondly, the culture at SThree allows people to come up with their own ideas on how to improve themselves and the business. This has been key to their success over the last 30+ years. Last but not least, I wanted to work for a company where you are respected for who you are and what you achieve. SThree certainly does that – here respect isn’t just a word, it’s what you experience right across the business.”
Son agrees and adds, “For me, I chose SThree because they offered so many opportunities to advance my career with the added benefit of attractive financial incentives”.
Making it work
David who has two sons with his fiancée says, “We each take turns taking the boys to school or day care. When it’s my turn, I simply text Son so he knows what time I’ll be in the office. He has total trust in me and my results and fully understands the importance of balancing your career with your family commitments.”
Son Pham
Son also shares the looking after his son with his girlfriend who works four days a week. “The most important thing is time management”, says Son.
“On Tuesdays, I’m at home and work half a day and spend the other half with my son. When it comes to managing a team, flexibility works by clear communication. I go over a day plan with my team and they know I’m always available by email or phone.”
The importance of trust and supporting others
Both David and Son agree that trust is key. They not only feel fully supported by their direct managers but also by people across Progressive and the whole SThree business.
In describing what it’s like to work at SThree, David says, “I’m proud that working for SThree means I’m able to help people reach a higher level and support them so they can reach their goals. For me personally, I still strive to hit all my targets and incentives.”
If you are interested in joining a company that fully supports having a rewarding career as well as a satisfying family life, check out our current vacancies in the Netherlands, among others, we're looking for a Business Developer.