From Marketing pro to a proud Mom-to-be: Meet Esmée
Esmée’s journey at St. Paul started with a bold leap and a curious heart.
“After finishing my master’s in Business Communication and Digital Media at Tilburg University and enjoying student life in Utrecht, I suddenly found myself at a crossroads,” she shares.
“Should I stay in Breda or move back to my roots in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen? The choice was made for me when we unexpectedly found the perfect house in Terneuzen. That set everything in motion – including my job search.”
Landing the Perfect Match
“As a recent graduate looking for a role in both a new region and a competitive field, finding the right fit wasn’t easy,” Esmée admits.
“But when I came across the Food Marketeer position at St. Paul – a brand-new role in an industry that brings joy to everyone – I knew this was it.”
What hooked her? The variety.
“Marketing in the food sector, at a company where you can really make a difference – it immediately spoke to me. One day I’m developing an internal campaign, the next I’m brainstorming promotions for both St. Paul and Royal ERU. The 360° marketing approach makes my role so dynamic. I’m constantly learning and evolving.”
Learning by Doing – and Loving It
“It was definitely a bit daunting at first,” she says. “Aside from internships, I hadn’t worked full-time in a large company before. But that steep learning curve was exactly what I was looking for.”
What impressed her most?
“The warm, welcoming culture of a true family business, and discovering just how many well-known brands St. Paul is behind. From cheese snacks at McDonald’s to the famous schnitzels from Vivera – it was eye-opening!”
Creative Thinking, Every Day
Now in her role as Junior Marketing Manager, Esmée works closely with the CMO and co-leads the marketing teams of St. Paul and Royal ERU together with her colleague Audrey.
“We turn the 360° strategy into hands-on plans for every channel – from online and offline to internal communications and external campaigns. No day looks the same, and that’s what I love most. I get to use my creativity in so many ways and gain experience across all aspects of marketing.”
So what keeps her going?
“I always aim to deliver the best result – from concept to execution – and nothing beats the feeling of a campaign that really hits the mark. That, combined with the amazing team energy, is what makes my job so fulfilling.”
The Power of Flexibility and Teamwork
“Good marketing is a mix of creativity, strategic thinking, and knowing exactly what your audience needs,” she explains.
“But flexibility and clear communication are just as crucial – especially when things don’t go to plan (and let’s be honest, that’s most days).”
If she could trade roles for a day?
“I’d love to shadow the Sales team. They’re on the front lines with our customers and really know what’s happening in the market. That kind of insight is so valuable for refining our campaigns.”
Team spirit is what makes it all come together:
“Bouncing ideas off each other, staying sharp, learning together – it’s what makes our team strong.”
Matcha, Gym Time & a Dash of Blue Cheese
If you had to sum up Esmée in three words? Ambitious, driven, and independent.
She’s also passionate about fitness, loves to play padel, and cherishes time with family and friends.
Her personality in cheese form?
“A bold blue cheese! Unique, full of character, and the perfect companion at any gathering – but also strong enough to stand on its own.”
Weirdest thing she’s ever added cheese to?
“Honestly, I’ll try cheese on almost anything – I’m 100% team cheesy!”
Coffee or tea?
“Can I say matcha? 😉 I’m a tea lover through and through, but I do enjoy a coffee to kick off my day now and then.”
A Moment of Pride
So what’s she most proud of?
“Helping build up the marketing department from scratch together with Audrey – that’s something I’ll always carry with me. And being part of a growing company like St. Paul, especially now that Koninklijke ERU is part of the family, is incredibly rewarding. Everyone knows our brands – that gives real meaning to what we do.”
And now, she’s preparing for her biggest adventure yet:
This month, Esmée is expecting her first child!
“On a personal note, I’m beyond proud to be welcoming a baby girl soon.”
We wish Esmée all the best during her maternity leave!
Curious about working at St. Paul? Check out our open positions!