Companies in Zeeland are facing a challenge: a growing shortage of technical talent in the labour market. This also applies to Damen Naval, which is why the company has joined the Province of Zeeland’s ‘Break Out’ campaign in cooperation with Talent Service Zeeland. This is aimed specifically at enticing qualified technical professionals from home and abroad to come to Zeeland.

The shortage of technical staff has a particular impact on companies where specialised skills and knowledge are essential for successful projects and future growth. Besides Damen Naval, Cargill, Dow, EPZ, Indaver and Ørsted have also joined the campaign. “Our companies all share the same challenges in recruiting,” says Sander Morijn, Recruiter at Damen Naval. “What I really like about our collaboration is that during the sessions we had together, they were able to look beyond their own needs. Everyone had the bigger picture in mind. That was very nice to see.”

The campaign team with HR Director Jeroen van Mierlo (second from left) launching Break-Out The campaign team with HR Director Jeroen van Mierlo (second from left) launching Break-Out

The campaign is divided into several initiatives, such as raising awareness about work opportunities in Zeeland among the rest of the Dutch technical sector. Sander: “We also offer extensive opportunities for internships and apprenticeships. And we pay more attention to highlighting the challenging career opportunities and attractive business climate for technicians in Zeeland.”

Follwoing the official launch recently, there are already advertising billboards with posters in various places in the Netherlands. Websites have been set up on the campaign, digital campaigns are launching, and social media is being deployed. In addition, the companies will also profile themselves at career fairs and other national and international events. Sander: “In view of the growth of our company and the many vacancies that are open, I hope that with this new campaign and cooperation, we will be able to welcome many more new colleagues from home and abroad to Damen Naval.”

“In view of the growth of our company and the many vacancies that are open, I hope that with this new campaign and cooperation, we will be able to welcome many more new colleagues from home and abroad to Damen Naval.” Sander Morijn

The ‘Break Out’ campaign is a follow-up to previous recruitment campaigns by the Province of Zeeland, such as the initiative to recruit GPs. “Just as then, we are joining forces again and that makes it powerful,” explains Jo-Annes de Bat, deputy provincial executive of the Province of Zeeland. “These companies fish in the same waters and appeal to the same target group. It is in the interest of the entire sector that the shortage is solved and I like the fact that the companies we are now working with also share this interest. The common interest comes before self-interest.”

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