Since 2000, the SugarCity location in Halfweg has been undergoing rapid development. The former sugar factory has been converted into an impressive industrial event venue. Lisanne de Goeij (29) has been working as an account manager at SugarFactory for four years and has already experienced many special events.
How did you end up at SugarFactory?
"I already knew the SugarFactory site because I visited it regularly when I took the train from my hometown of Haarlem to Amsterdam. A friend of mine told me that the old sugar factory had been converted into an event venue. I decided to submit an open application and was invited for an interview. During the introduction, I immediately felt a connection with the team, and after seeing the event spaces, I became even more enthusiastic. In my position as Account Manager for SugarFactory, I saw an opportunity to develop myself further. Four years have passed since then!
What exactly do you do in your position as Account Manager?
"Among other things, I am responsible for applications. When a new application arrives, it is my job to inspire the potential customer and convince them of the value of our location for their event. In addition, once a deal is closed, I am responsible for supporting the customer before, during, and after the event. In the preliminary phase, I put customers in touch with caterers, decorators, and technical suppliers upon request. I also take care of the transfer to our operations department for the execution of the events. This means you are involved from start to finish, which is what makes my job so enjoyable. I think the reason this position suits me so well is that I am a people person. It gives me a tremendous amount of energy to interact with many different people every day and to maintain contact with them.
What do you like so much about working at SugarFactory?
"At SugarFactory, we work with a small and close-knit team. We work very hard together to achieve the best results, which creates a close bond. We also know what projects each of us is working on so that we can think together. I really like this feeling of commitment. In addition, every day is different because we organize a variety of events. From fashion shows and photo shoots to company presentations and TV recordings. And, of course, even after four years, this place remains a source of inspiration. I am often surprised by the ideas that arise when organizing events.
What does your working day look like?
"My morning starts with creating a schedule for the day. There are days when I have three appointments on my agenda, so I don't spend much time at my desk. Then I give guided tours, for example, or sit down with a client to discuss the possibilities. But on other days, I don't have any appointments and can concentrate fully on my emails and inquiries behind my computer. Of course, on days when I have a lot of appointments, I also check my emails in between to see if there are any emails that really can't wait or new inquiries that require a quick response. If necessary, I can then enlist the help of one of my colleagues. I also pay close attention to preparing for my appointments. I think it's important to know who I have an appointment with, what their wishes seem to be, and how we can best help the customer. My responsibilities also include evaluating fire safety plans and approval procedures, maintaining contact with the fire department and the community regarding current events, and handling the financial aspects of events. At the end of the day, I check to see if my to-do list has been completed.
What makes SugarFactory unique in your eyes?
"I don't know of any place that is as authentic as SugarFactory. The raw character of the factory and the impressive elements, such as the beautifully lit boilers, create a special atmosphere that I have never experienced anywhere else. Our team treats the event spaces with great respect, and we ask our customers to do the same. And because there are still areas that need to be renovated, we can surprise our customers again and again. Various customers have returned to our location for a new event. There is so much to offer at our location, and we want to show that to the world.
"There are various industrial and historical venues in the Netherlands, but internationally this is much less the case. However, this is a targeted search. There are opportunities for us there.
What is the most special thing you have experienced?
"The last four years have been packed with special moments, moments, moments, and events.
