Were you still searching for your professional direction at 27th? Not so for Michiel Vandeweyer. Three years after graduating in business economics, the title of CEO is already proverbially on his door. Although he never expected it to happen so quickly himself.
HiGENiUS is the recently launched new name for the former Groep Vandeweyer. After six years, the Genk-based supplier of cleaning equipment and provider of professional cleaning services already has more than a hundred employees. Until now, the family business grew under the wings of father Luc and partner Erhan. From this year onwards, son Michiel is stepping fully into the spotlight.
“My father actually had one clear rule: don’t join the company right away, find your own way first. But due to circumstances, someone left and they urgently needed a replacement. I was in the middle of applying for jobs at the time, so I was allowed to provide some support while waiting for a position. Administration, following up on orders… I assume the rest of the story speaks for itself? (laughs)”
Yet these were not the first steps Michiel Vandeweyer took in his father’s company. “Far from it, actually. I was there every holiday from the age of fourteen. Keeping the warehouse in order, helping with deliveries… All those years, I got to know the company inside out. I can perfectly empathize with the work many people do here.”
“Since I was fourteen, I’ve gotten to know every corner of the company.”
What does the life of a brand-new CEO look like according to Michiel? “To be honest? I have no idea. I was actually caught a bit off guard. My father and I talked about it occasionally. But that it would happen so fast?”
“That’s why I’ve gradually been given more final responsibility over the past few months. Still, a lot happens in consultation with my father and Erhan. So I don’t know if there are many surprises left. That might make it a little bit scary.”
“But on the other hand, I have a huge amount of experience. Thanks to my many years in different positions within the company, but also thanks to my studies. Both the know-how and the strategic long-term vision are there to make my own mark on the company.”
“And if I need advice, I have enough knowledge and experience around me to make the right decisions. Not just internally, but also through friends and acquaintances facing the same challenges. And that’s how I build up the necessary experience myself.”
“Your whole morning can go perfectly… and suddenly everything changes.”
How important is a network, especially for a very young business owner like Michiel Vandeweyer? “I’m a fairly active networker myself. Still, I don’t think a large network is necessary to achieve success. I know enough people who prove the opposite. What I believe you can’t do without is being able to spot opportunities, daring to say no strategically, and being flexible in coming up with solutions. And of course, keeping things in perspective. Your whole morning can go perfectly and suddenly everything changes. You have to learn to deal with that.”
A new brand name and brand strategy (by: Expliciet ;-)), the CEO title, and soon the big move. “Things are indeed moving very fast in 2020 (laughs). We are bringing all the companies within our group together under one roof in a brand-new building. In this way, we want to create a great dynamic and extra synergy among our employees. To increase our impact even further.”
And some relaxation every now and then? “I do my best, but when your work is also your hobby, it doesn’t get any easier, of course. Give me the choice between a city trip and a company visit, and I’ll guaranteed go for the latter. I love seeing how other companies work and how we can learn from them. It has to stay fun. And it is for me, at every moment.”
What was your dream job as a child?
“Becoming a chef. Unfortunately, I had to shelve those plans pretty quickly. But I still love to cook very much and very regularly.”
What is your most underrated skill?
“According to a test I recently took, I score exceptionally high in terms of people skills. Although I must say I never really noticed this. Perhaps it has often come in handy subconsciously.”
Gut feeling or thinking it through?
“I’m a pro at overthinking things, but there will always be a bit of gut feeling involved when I make a decision.”
You have an extra hour a day. What do you spend it on?
“Not that I get too little sleep, but I certainly wouldn’t turn down an extra hour in bed.”
How well do you balance work and private life?
“I admit I struggle with that a lot. When I get home, I prefer to jump straight back behind the PC to settle a few more things. There’s still work to be done (laughs).”