Eric Dekkers has been working as a Senior Sales Engineer at Gpi Tanks XL for three years. From the initial request to the customer’s final approval, he works on large tank construction projects that are built on-site. “Every project is custom-made and requires a great deal of thought.”
Although Eric was initially more interested in logistics, he gradually moved into engineering. At the company where he started as an order processor, he developed towards engineering and sales. He also completed a part-time degree in Mechanical Engineering. This enabled him to grow into the role of sales engineer, after which he fulfilled several other positions within the company, where he worked for more than twenty years. Following a reorganisation, he moved to another company, but there he did not find the level of technical depth he was looking for.
"Behind every tank is an extensive technical request involving complex calculations."
Choosing Gpi
While searching for his ideal job, he came across the vacancy for Sales Engineer at Gpi Tanks XL. Eric explains: “When I saw the vacancy, it immediately seemed like a great opportunity. It matched exactly what I was looking for. I applied and then had an interview. Instead of a second interview, I was taken to a tank construction site to see with my own eyes what Gpi Tanks XL does. I found that truly impressive. That’s when I was convinced.”
Technical depth
The role offers the challenge Eric was looking for: “A tank is not just a tank. Behind every tank is an extensive technical request involving complex calculations. It is very precise work, because every detail has to be correct. In addition, every project requires a lot of thought about where a tank must be built and everything involved in making that happen. Many colleagues are involved in preparing a quotation. I really enjoy this project-based way of working together.”
"So many colleagues are involved in a request that you truly sell a project together."
What does a sales engineer do?
As a Senior Sales Engineer, Eric handles requests for major tank construction projects: “When a request comes in, I review the specifications and carry out a technical assessment. I consult with the sales manager and the operational department to determine the possibilities. Besides the tank specifications, we assess where the tank will eventually be located and how we can realise the construction. In addition to feasibility, planning is also very important. We coordinate this with the different departments.”
“When we have gathered all the information, we submit the quotation. This entire sales process can take a long time, so patience is essential. When we eventually receive approval for an order, it always feels like a major achievement. So many colleagues are involved in a request that you truly sell a project together. And when you eventually see the finished result standing on-site in real life, that’s fantastic to witness,” Eric says enthusiastically.
"Although the company is large, it doesn’t feel that way. That positively surprised me."
Working at Gpi
“At Gpi Tanks XL, we work with a very enjoyable, strong and close-knit team that truly stands together. We know what to expect from one another and can genuinely build success together. Gpi is a young, dynamic and growing company. Although the company is large, it doesn’t feel that way. That positively surprised me. You are not just a number here, and colleagues are personally involved with one another. That creates a warm atmosphere.”
Future
“There is still so much to learn. We are constantly dealing with large and complex projects, and no tank or project is ever the same. I want to keep developing myself. You never stop learning here. I can also learn a lot from the younger colleagues; we complement each other well. It’s an enthusiastic and intelligent team. I’m very happy that I ended up at Gpi, and I hope to remain part of it for many years to come.”
