Background in IT & Economics

"After my secondary studies in Economics Modern Languages, a technical direction in the IT sector seemed interesting. So I went to study Applied Computer Science at the Thomas More University College. After one and a half years, I realised that this subject was perhaps not quite my cup of tea. Nevertheless, I finished the course and then went on to study for an additional bachelor 'Business & Entrepreneurship'.

At VanRoey, I now get the chance to combine both degrees. I may be working in the Sales department, yet my background in IT is a nice bonus during sales calls."

Philip chooses Sales, like his father and grandfather

So where did you get that 'passion for Sales' from Philip? "Well my father was an Account Manager and often on the road to visit customers. I regularly went along and found it fascinating to see how he managed to maintain these customer relations. My grandfather was also active in sales. He was CEO of Astra Sweets, a sweet factory in Turnhout. So we can say that I inherited the passion for sales at an early age.

Started via the Next Gen track

"When I obtained my degree, I made a spontaneous application to VanRoey. I quickly felt there was a click with the company. The relaxed atmosphere quickly made me feel at ease.

I chose to start via the 'Next Gen Trajectory'. An intensive programme full of training courses tailored to starters. These courses have enabled me to hone my soft skills, among other things. You go through this programme together with other starters, with whom a bond was quickly formed.

Catholic Education Diocese of Antwerp

Although still relatively new, Philip became the point of contact for all KOBA Schools. "KOBA is the schools umbrella organisation of the Catholic Education Diocese of Antwerp. Among other things, VanRoey provides there interactive touch screens from CTOUCH. I am responsible for maintaining contact with the various schools. That's nice because it allows me to focus on one sector.

In a world where physical and digital are increasingly converging, it is crucial as an organisation to invest in the right underlying infrastructure. Assisting schools with this is Philip Coppens' speciality.

Update 2023: From Inside Sales to Account Manager!

At VanRoey, we strongly believe in the growth potential of our employees. "With us, people do what they love to do and we are going to encourage this." This corporate culture has enabled Philip Coppens to excel. Starting in September 2021 as Next Genner, he advanced to Inside Sales and became the primary point of contact for all KOBA schools.

This year, 2023, Philip has a new milestone achieved: he has been promoted to Account Manager! His dedication, passion for sales and ability to build strong customer relationships reflect the opportunities offered by VanRoey. We are sure he will achieve even more successes in this new role. Congratulations, Philip!

A Great Place To Work

Finally, we also asked Philip to describe VanRoey in three words:

• Company with opportunities
• Good team spirit
• Great Place To Work

"I feel that even as a recent graduate you can count on opportunities at VanRoey. The fact that I was asked to be KOBA contact after only a few months with the company was definitely something I liked!

In addition, there is definitely a good team spirit. We are always willing to help each other where possible. The family atmosphere on the work floor obviously helps.

As the third word I choose 'Great Place To Work'. The official label VanRoey received last year as a result of an accompanying audit. I can testify that it is also effectively a nice working environment here. In just a few months, I really feel at ease here. Thanks to the many colleagues who have guided me in this."

Do you also find customer contact so fascinating?

And would you like to join an official Great Place To Work, full of growth opportunities? View our vacancies & apply!