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Addressing Intercultural Collaboration and Embracing Diversity
How the Planon Software Development team navigates and benefits from cultural differences.
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At Planon, the goal has always been clear: to be an Employer of Choice. We prioritise our people, aiming to create an inspiring and safe environment where our colleagues can thrive - whether working, learning, living, or playing. But perhaps the strongest testament to our culture is when employees choose to return after exploring opportunities elsewhere. Two such employees, Rogier and Radhika, share their career journeys and why Planon remains their Employer of Choice.
A Journey of Growth and Return
Rogier, now a Development Director based at Planon’s headquarters in Nijmegen, first stepped through the company’s doors in 2003 as an intern. Back then, his connection to Planon was serendipitous - a friend had mentioned the company, and Rogier applied on a whim. ‘I didn’t even research the company beforehand,’ he admits. Despite the daunting challenge of working on a rapidly evolving Java framework, Rogier made an impression and was hired after completing his internship.
His career trajectory at Planon reflects his evolving passions. Rogier started as a functional designer, but after a while he missed the technical part and switched to developer. As a developer, he worked on our mobile, maintenance, project management and plan board solutions. Eight years later, he became a scrum master but eventually found himself seeking a new challenge outside Planon. ‘I decided to find out if management would be something for me and started a job as project manager in a smaller company. It didn’t take long before I realised that the company and I were not the best fit. However, I learned a lot about what I do not like and I’m grateful for that life lesson. ’
Development Director Rogier
The decision to return to Planon came during a chance meeting with his former manager during King’s Day, a Dutch holiday. ‘Life was hectic - a new house, little kids. I wanted peace of mind, and I knew that Planon could give me that. I knew the culture, and they knew me. It just made sense,’ Rogier recalls.
Country Director Radhika
In Hyderabad, India, Country Director Radhika’s career at Planon began in 2008, when the office was still a fledgling team of just eight people. Initially hired as a tester, she considered the role merely another step in her career, but working at Planon quickly became more than just a job. ‘I felt attached to the company early on, especially as the team in India grew,’ she says. Over time, her responsibilities expanded as she moved through roles like senior tester, scrum master, and eventually associate development manager - a position that was created specifically for her.
Radhika’s life journey took her to New Zealand, where she worked as a contractor in different organisations. However, the pull of Planon remained strong. When a former colleague informed her of an opportunity to return, she didn’t hesitate. ‘It wasn’t just about the job,’ Radhika explains. ‘It was about the people and the way I was treated at Planon. Even when I left, I felt valued. I’ll never forget how our previous CEO took the time to personally ask if there was anything he could do to help me as I transitioned to New Zealand.’
What Makes Planon Different?
For both Rogier and Radhika, the decision to return was rooted in Planon’s unique culture. ‘There’s a sense of peace here,’ Rogier reflects. ‘The company understands its people and trusts them to do their best work. That trust makes a huge difference.’
Radhika echoes the sentiment. ‘It’s rare to find a company where leadership genuinely listens to you. That’s what makes Planon stand out. When I returned, it felt like coming back to a safe space.’
Their experiences outside Planon weren’t wasted, either. For Radhika, her time as a contractor exposed her to diverse work environments, enriching her perspective. For Rogier, it clarified what he didn’t want in a company, further solidifying his appreciation for Planon’s supportive atmosphere.
Keeping it Fresh and Challenging
With long tenures under their belts, both Rogier and Radhika have strategies to keep their work engaging. For Radhika, learning new skills during quieter moments and taking on fresh roles have kept her energised. ‘Every few years, I try to move in a new direction,’ she says. ‘It keeps me challenged and passionate. My latest role as Country Director allows me to make a difference for 250 people, which is incredibly rewarding.’
Rogier thrives on the constant evolution within Planon. ‘The company is always changing, which can be somewhat challenging at times, but it’s also what keeps the energy flowing. Now that we are part of Schneider Electric, there are exciting challenges ahead that feel like an entirely new chapter.’
Advice for Career Growth
Both Rogier and Radhika believe that success at Planon - or anywhere - requires initiative. ‘Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you,’ Rogier advises. ‘Sometimes you have to create your own path. Be proactive and make yourself seen.’
Radhika adds, ‘Whether you want to grow in-depth in your field or move up the ladder, follow your heart. Find what makes you happy and pursue it.’
For Rogier and Radhika, Planon is more than a workplace - it’s a community where careers are nurtured, challenges are embraced, and growth is encouraged. Their journeys, marked by departures and returns, stand as proof of the company’s enduring appeal.
Thinking about joining Planon? Explore our vacancies and discover if it’s the right fit for you!