Bert-Jan Westerik appointed Managing Director of MCB Netherlands since December
Since 1 December 2025, Bert-Jan Westerik has held the position of Managing Director of MCB Netherlands. In the months that followed, he familiarized himself extensively with colleagues, customers, and all parts of the organization. That period gave him a clear picture of the culture and cooperation within MCB. “What struck me immediately is how helpful and loyal colleagues are. Going the extra mile for each other and for the customer is truly embedded in the way of working here.”
Broad experience in industry and supply chain management
With more than 25 years of experience, Bert-Jan has long operated at the intersection of commerce, operations and supply chain. According to him, this is precisely where the quality of service is determined. “It is always the interplay between those components that ultimately determines how well you can serve customers.”
A deliberate step towards MCB
His decision to join MCB was well-considered. The combination of a strong market position, a financially healthy organization and the character of a family-owned business particularly appealed to him. “MCB is a solid organization with a clear position in the market. At the same time, it has the accessibility and engagement of a family business, and that really resonates with me.”
He considers the broad responsibility associated with this role a logical next step.
“What makes this position interesting is looking at the full picture: from purchasing and logistics to sales and customer relationships.”
Pride and involvement throughout the organization
In his first months, Bert-Jan mainly saw an organization where people feel strongly connected to their work. “Employees are proud of what they do and commit themselves every day to serving customers well. You can see that everywhere: from our drivers to purchasing, from sales to the loading teams.”
That level of involvement aligns perfectly with his leadership style. “Many people describe me as a people-oriented person, and I recognize that. My door is open, and I find it important to be present on the work floor. In the end, it’s always about people; behind every employee is a person.”
Focus on reliability and the future
In the coming period, Bert-Jan will focus on themes that have long been important within MCB: reliability, profitability, and satisfied customers and employees. “I am focusing mainly on two priorities: continuously improving our reliability and strengthening our margin. Are we doing what we promise? And are we removing obstacles so that we can serve our customers even better?”
Additionally, the market requires agility, he says. Ensuring the future readiness of the organization is also high on the agenda. “It remains important to attract and retain good people. The expertise and commitment of employees are essential for MCB’s future.” According to him, MCB distinguishes itself through strong service, short delivery times and a broad product range, enabling customers to be supported quickly and reliably.
Building the future of MCB together
Collaboration is, in Bert-Jan’s view, the foundation for success. “Together we form one chain. Departments must reinforce and support one another.” He works from a sense of ownership and encourages the same in others. “I often ask myself: what would I do if this were my own company? That helps to stay sharp.”
He summarizes his leadership philosophy in one belief: “Great things in business are never done by one person. They are always done by a team of people.” With that mindset, he looks forward to continuing to build the future of MCB Netherlands together with his colleagues.