As a Shift Leader 24/7 at Liquin’s Botlek terminal, Jeffrey Kruimink operates at the heart of daily terminal operations. After a career in defence and completing a work-study programme in operations, he progressed step by step at Liquin to his current position.
From Operator to Shift Leader
Jeffrey started his career more than 12 years ago as a Third Operator. He subsequently advanced to Second and First Operator, Team Leader, and ultimately Shift Leader. He also gained experience as a Process Controller. According to Jeffrey, this broad operational background is invaluable. “Having worked directly in operations myself, I understand the reality on the ground. As a Shift Leader, I can now use that experience to support and guide my team. I know the practical challenges, but I can also take a helicopter view. This makes it easier to maintain oversight and coach colleagues effectively.”
Overall responsibility for operations
As Shift Leader, Jeffrey is ultimately responsible for the activities of his team of 15. “If something happens, I am the first point of contact. Information comes to me from all directions: operators, contractors, planning, customers and sometimes even external authorities. My role is to provide clarity and ensure that everyone knows what needs to be done.”
Jeffrey works according to a continuous shift schedule, including morning, afternoon and night shifts. “That means working at unconventional hours. While it can result in fragmented weekends, the advantage is that I am often at home when others are working. For example, I can be there when my daughters come home from school or spend a morning with them. That balance works very well for me.”
Safety as a top priority
Safety is critical in this industry so it is one of Jeffrey’s key responsibilities.
“Safety always comes first. I regularly walk around the terminal to see what’s happening and talk with colleagues. You notice things on the ground that you would never see from behind a desk. It helps to stay alert and proactive.”
Supporting young talent
One of the aspects Jeffrey values most in his role is training and mentoring new colleagues.
“The team has become significantly younger in recent years. Many colleagues are at the beginning of their careers. I enjoy supporting their development and seeing how they grow. Everyone follows their own path, and it’s rewarding to play a part in that journey.”
Room for initiative
Since the transition to Liquin, Jeffrey has found more room for personal input.
“The organisation is smaller and communication lines are shorter. Decisions are made faster, and there’s real openness to improvement initiatives. If I see opportunities to work smarter or more efficiently, there’s always space to discuss them. That motivates me to continuously look for ways to improve.”
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