From FTE to independent consultant – How Andi became an interim manager

'Finding my first independent assignment was not evident. Thanks to Stroom, that process went surprisingly smoothly.’

‘Finding my first independent assignment was not evident. Thanks to Stroom, that process went surprisingly smoothly.’

Background

With 15 years of experience in procurement, Andi decided to take a new path. He became an independent consultant, and in doing so, Stroom became an indispensable partner.

Challenge

Finding consultant assignments yourself is proving difficult. Companies often want to work with a third party so they know what to expect. Stroom’s network and client portfolio provide Andi with more opportunities, making the search a lot easier.

From FTE to independent consultant

Andi deliberately chose a career as an independent consultant to avoid the drudgery of a fixed payroll and to continuously challenge himself.

‘I like variety and novelty. That way I maintain my drive and my work stays interesting.’

This choice already brought him great projects including his first independent assignment at Alken-Maes, found through Stroom.

A leap of faith? Not with Stroom.

‘Clients are often hesitant about someone with no experience as a consultant. Thanks to Stroom, that process went surprisingly smoothly. Through their insights, they knew how to best position my profile to potential clients. As a result, there was a first match within a short time.’

Andi reveals that Stroom offered a solution not only for him, but also for their customers: ‘What Stroom offers is always a win-win: they provide a new fulfilment for both their customers and me.’

A partner who understands what you need

For Andi, it is clear why he chose Stroom:

  • Prompt and personal communication.
    From smooth communication via Whatsapp to an extended conversation over coffee. Always moving quickly, he quickly found his first success story at Stroom.
  • Market knowledge.
    Stroom understands which projects best suit an experienced procurement professional like him and knows how to match them perfectly.
  • Focus on sustainable results.
    Within a short lead time, Stroom found Andi’s first 2 independent assignments at 2 different companies, which have since been renewed several times.

A well-oiled collaboration. Now and in the future

With his current project coming to an end soon, Andi is looking ahead to a new challenge. In doing so, he again relies on Stroom’s expertise:

No other recruiters have jumped into the fire to offer me anything like this, which is why I fully rely on Stroom’s expertise again for a follow-up project.’

Ready to make the move?

Just started as an independent consultant or looking for your next, different challenge? Together, we will ensure your perfect match. Or as Andi puts it:

‘Working with Stroom gives you access to their broad client portfolio and their insight into what companies are really looking for. That not only saves time, but also delivers the best results.’

At Stroom Recruitment, we have years of experience in placing interim management assignments in industrial sectors such as logistics, supply chain, procurement, engineering and so on. Our extensive network provides a range of opportunities for both new and seasoned independent consultants.

Are you in doubt about using your expertise on an interim management basis? Then schedule a free consultation. Together, we will look at what this big step could mean for you.