Sanne – Project and Portfolio Manager
I studied psychology and focus on people and change. Through a traineeship in information and change management, I was able to get my teeth into implementing a new system at the Provincial Executive of Friesland. That's how my interest in digitisation started. Some time later, I was able to start work as an information advisor and project leader at the water authority. And now I'm a project and portfolio manager.
‘I enjoy improving business operations.’
What is the priority?
I am responsible for the portfolio of digitisation projects within Noorderzijlvest. I look at the objectives and needs and, together with management, determine which activities have priority. Currently, these are replacing the case management system, the financial system, and the eHRM system, which are major projects that will improve business operations.
‘ICT remains a human endeavour’
Digitisation is increasingly important for us to do our work. It is a vital part of our organisation, and continuity and security must be guaranteed. Everyone must be able to continue doing their work as usual, even when we transition to new systems. Sometimes, work must also be done differently. That is a challenge, of course. We also want people to work with the systems as effectively as possible. ICT remains largely a human endeavour.
Switching quickly
In my job, I need to be able to switch quickly between strategic, tactical, and operational tasks. You have to connect with people, be a team player, and manage expectations well. You can often see where there is room for improvement, but you have to take it further yourself, push it and embed it. When that works, that really energises me.
There are still plenty of challenges for me here. I would like to broaden portfolio management beyond digitisation alone and focus on strategic objectives. Digitisation is a means, not an end. If we use digitisation strategically, we can achieve even greater ambitions and also look ahead more effectively. I also find the national cooperation and knowledge sharing via the Waterschapshuis enjoyable and interesting. For the time being, there is still plenty to keep me interested.
Will it be water-management work for you too?
We work together to get the water balance just right. But we think a good work-life balance is just as important! When you work for us, you can combine meaningful work with job satisfaction and great terms of employment.
