In June 2024; Johan de Bie joined the global network of ERA Group as a partner. In his profile; you can read a brief summary of his time before ERA and the expertise he brings with him.
To get to know our new people a little better; we ask each new partner six questions after they join. Read Johan's spontaneous response:
1. Why this new step in your career?
I had been considering starting my own business for a number of years. As my own boss; I can determine the content and variety of my work myself and focus fully on what I enjoy doing: implementing improvements.
In my last job; where I was responsible for due diligence; management and business integration as a project director; I noticed that my drive was being stifled by changes in policy. That's when I knew it was time to take the helm myself.
At that moment; ERA Group came along and everything fell into place...
2. Was this what you wanted to be when you were a young boy?
Even as a young boy, I aspired to undertake projects independently 😉. However, as the managing director of a construction firm, just like my father and my grandfathers. As a partner at ERA, a part of my childhood dream is now being realised.
3. Every career has its ups and downs. What are you proud of? And what would you like to do over?
I am proud of many things; but the most successful achievements in my career have always been the result of optimal collaboration by an entire team. Although I led and facilitated such a team; the most important thing is that you need other people to make it a success.
And do something over; with the wisdom of hindsight...? Every choice I've made has shaped me into who I am. Perhaps I should have joined ERA Group earlier.
4. What kind of (work) challenge would galvanise you into action?
I consistently derive significant impetus when I can contribute to resolving or pre-empting a problem. This is particularly true when an anomaly is present. Such situations often occupy my thoughts.
For instance, I once encountered a scenario where the project rates were highly favourable, as was the final outcome. Yet, for unclear reasons, the overall company margin remained suboptimal. By conducting a granular analysis, I discovered this was attributable to an erroneous accounting entry, which meant that expenditure exceeded revenue generated. Present me with such a critical flaw, and you can command my immediate attention!
5. Who is your exemplar?
There are numerous individuals I admire for their accomplishments. However, if compelled to select one, I am particularly proud of my wife. Through her unwavering commitment to quality, her perseverance, and her profound dedication to ovine care, she has successfully established a commendable landscape management enterprise.
6. What is your ERA dream?
To work on many assignments and thus contribute successfully to the growth of the ERA Group network. But that is; of course; very general.
During my MBA research; I discovered that a long-term and successful collaboration between asset owner and contractor is fertile ground for cost savings. The informal network plays a crucial role in this because it promotes trust; which is essential for good collaboration.
My dream is to gain this trust among ERA customers and help them with solutions that are a godsend.
ERA is pleased that Johan will be augmenting the network and extends its best wishes for his success and professional gratification, in line with his motto: 'Success is achieved together'.
