At St. Paul, HR is all about people and you can feel it.
Growth is often reflected in numbers, new machines or expansions. But at St. Paul, growth starts with people. And that’s exactly where Elien feels completely at home in her role as Junior HR Advisor. Her first introduction to St. Paul didn’t come through a vacancy, but through an article. The plans for a new factory and the company’s growth immediately caught her attention.
“I was looking for an HR position in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, and when I read this, everything just came together. Growth means new colleagues, development and change – and HR really plays an important role in that.”
A growing family business, a tangible product and an organization where HR is not a side role but a connecting factor. Her choice was quickly made.
No Two Days Are the Same, One Shared Goal
Anyone who thinks HR is mainly a desk job is mistaken. Her workdays are anything but predictable. While the day often starts with emails and reviewing her agenda, it can quickly take a completely different turn.
“One moment I’m working with applicants, the next I’m supporting a meeting, preparing a contract or handling a question that suddenly comes up.” That variety is exactly what makes the job so enjoyable. “You’re constantly switching between people, tasks and departments.”
For her, HR means being visible, listening carefully and thinking along. It’s not just about following procedures, but about truly understanding what’s happening within the organization.
Working in a Team That Gives You Room to Grow
What stood out to her immediately during her first weeks was the atmosphere. “I felt welcome right away. Colleagues took the time to explain things and help me find my way within the organization.” Within the HR team, there is a strong focus on results, always combined with genuine attention for one another. “We work hard, but there’s also room for fun. That balance is very important to me.”
The team actively encourages her development by giving her responsibility. “Tasks are entrusted to me and I’m given the freedom to figure things out on my own. That helps me learn quickly. And whenever I have questions, everyone is willing to think along.”
Trust as the Foundation of HR
For her, the essence of HR isn’t found in systems or rules, but in trust. “When colleagues feel comfortable being open with me and involve me in what’s going on, I know I’m doing my job well.”
That trust requires empathy, strong communication skills and discretion. “Many conversations are personal, so it’s important that people feel safe.” Those moments — a meaningful conversation, being a listening ear, truly helping someone — give her the greatest sense of fulfillment. “That’s when I think: this is why I do what I do.”
Connected to the Entire Organization
Because HR works closely with all departments, she gets to know St. Paul from every angle. This makes the role not only varied, but also challenging. “Each department has its own way of working and sometimes different priorities. That’s when it’s important to align well and think creatively.”
If she could spend a day in another department, she would choose production. “That’s where you really see what it’s all about: the product. I find it impressive to see how people and machines work together.”
Learning, Growing and Looking Ahead
Last summer, she graduated in Human Resource Management from HZ University of Applied Sciences. During her internships, she gained experience in various organizations, providing a strong foundation for her start at St. Paul. She describes herself as engaged, eager to learn and collaborative — qualities that fit her role perfectly.
Did You Know…?
If she were a type of cheese, she would be a young Gouda: approachable, versatile and with plenty of room to mature 🧀
She prefers tea over coffee, with rooibos as her favorite
She certainly won’t say no to a cappuccino every now and then
What she’s most proud of is the journey she has taken
From being a student to truly becoming part of an organization
Earning the trust to fulfill this role and continue developing feels incredibly valuable to her
“At St. Paul, HR is not a background function, but a connecting force. With her fresh perspective, commitment and eagerness to learn, she contributes every day to an organization where people feel seen and heard.”
Curious about working at St. Paul? Take a look at our vacancies page.