HZ feels a bit like second family to me

Working in an inspiring working environment where hospitality and humanity are key. That is what Tudor experiences at HZ. He is happy to now be able to give something back to the community. With his position as Internationalisation Officer, Tudor has the opportunity to help international students, something he had the pleasure of experiencing himself when he was a student at HZ.

What are the dynamics like in your team?

"The team consists of a very diverse and driven group of people. We work with colleagues of all kinds of nationalities. From Tanzania to Eastern Europe to France. Everyone brings a different perspective from their background. I think that's what makes our team so complete. I also enjoy working with colleagues from other departments. HZ feels a bit like a second family to me. Something I really wasn't used to from my previous employers. Many fun events are organised, for and by colleagues. That way we spend a lot of time together, also outside work."

How do you experience the work environment?

"What I find most positive about the working environment is the hospitality and humanity. I myself moved from the UK to the Netherlands to work here. That was quite exciting. A new country, a new working environment, new colleagues. I was really pleasantly surprised by the warmth with which I was welcomed. Everyone did their best to make me feel at home very quickly. Even outside work, my colleagues were willing to help me and answer questions."

What do you like best about your job?

"That I now have the opportunity to help international students, just as I myself was helped when I studied here. Originally, I'm from Romania. Studying at HZ meant a chance for a better life for me. I left behind my country, my family, my friends, everything. I am eternally grateful for the way the HZ helped me with all kinds of practical matters. It makes you feel welcome and seen. I love the fact that I can now fulfil this role for new international students. I am always there for them with practical tips. About their home, about applying for a job or about their education. I love to see how these students grow. That they develop into established professionals in four years. I am happy that I can now give something back to the community."

Do you have a great deal of freedom in your work?

"Yes definitely. I like to work together with my colleagues, but I also think it's important to give yourself the confidence to work independently. At HZ, this is very much the case. They trust your knowledge and your commitment. And you are encouraged to keep developing yourself.

Both professionally and personally. I enjoy the autonomy I get to set up projects and make choices independently. For example, when I see opportunities somewhere on the world map for the HZ to reach international students. My manager and my teammates are always behind me. They support initiatives, always looking at how they can help you in this."

If anyone is thinking about a job at HZ, you say ...

"Don't hesitate for a moment and go for it! HZ is the perfect place to develop yourself further and meet lots of interesting people. You are doing work of significance. We all work hard to train young professionals, mostly in fields that make the world a bit better. Think sustainability, energy and vitality. If you want to be part of that movement, join us!"

Do you also work on your personal development at HZ?

"You get a lot of opportunities at HZ to develop yourself. Personally, I'm still thinking about what exactly I want to do. Maybe I want to follow a master's degree, alongside my work. There are also a lot of great initiatives for employees. For example, the bicycle plan. When I came to the Netherlands, I was surprised at how important cycling is here. So I immediately took advantage of the bicycle plan. HZ helped me buy a nice bicycle. This way, I can get from home to work and vice versa in a sustainable way. Sustainability is a major focus within the HZ."

Are any fun events organised for colleagues?

"On the social front, lots of fun things happen too. For instance, we have HZ Fun. That's a group of dedicated colleagues who organise all kinds of events. But we also have HZ Sport and HZ Cult, for sports and cultural activities. There are so many ways to do fun things with your colleagues. Don't forget the great HZ parties either. It's good to see each other in a festive and relaxed environment once in a while too. That way you can also socialise with colleagues you don't speak to as often during work."

Also working at HZ?

Within HZ, there are many opportunities in many different fields. From lecturer to janitor, marketing or ICT staff, HR advisor or financial manager: together we contribute to a better, sustainable world.