TBS-SVA combines technical growth with attention to people

The technical world may be complex, but at TBS-SVA they like to keep it human. HR consultant Janou Kasander explains how the organization - despite its growth - sticks to short lines of communication, personal attention and equal opportunities for everyone. "Whether you are in production or working in the office: here you are allowed to be who you are."

Open culture, short lines of communication

If you ask Kasander what typifies TBS-SVA, in addition to the innovative drainage solutions and impressive projects, she talks about the pleasant working atmosphere. "Of course we are proud of what we make," she says. "But ultimately it is the atmosphere that keeps people here. We're not officially a family business, but it does feel that way. That's because of the way we treat each other."

The company now has about ninety employees but has still remained uncluttered. "Everyone knows each other. There is little hierarchy, the lines are short. You notice this in everything: you can easily walk in anywhere - whether it's to a colleague or to the management. And if someone doesn't have time, they make time later. That's just part of the culture here."

Sincere attention to people

A good working atmosphere is important, but TBS-SVA looks beyond that. "We want to be a place where everyone feels comfortable, regardless of background, education or position," Kasander says. "That starts with paying attention to differences between people and with mutual understanding. Sometimes someone is struggling with something or reacts differently than you are used to. Then we try to start the conversation instead of judging. That human approach is very important with us."

That doesn't just come from HR. "It's in the whole organization. From a chat at the coffee machine to serious business - we are there for each other. People feel heard. And that, in turn, translates into commitment. If you take good care of your people, you get a lot in return." 

Space to develop

TBS-SVA is an approved training company and emphatically looks beyond diplomas alone. "Someone with the right attitude and motivation gets a fair chance with us. That approach works. We have plenty of examples of colleagues who entered the company without specific prior training and are now fully participating in the team."

There is also plenty of room for those who want to develop further. "We offer many training and advancement opportunities both internally and externally," Kasander continues. "We employ a coordinator who focuses entirely on developing colleagues tailored to our field and machinery. Whether it's concrete specialization or technical depth - we are happy to invest in that."

According to Kasander, that is one of the company's greatest strengths. "Here you can advance, if you want to. We provide the opportunities - and guide you with them."

Tackling in a tight labor market

The labor market is tight. Good technical staff is scarce. "This is precisely why it is important that employees want to come in here and want to stay. That means more than just good terms of employment," Kasander knows. "It's also about the feeling that you belong, that there is room for your development and that you are listened to."

"We also look at who someone is, where someone's strengths lie," Kasander explains. "Sometimes growing up means moving from production to office, or vice versa. We think along with that. We expect commitment from our people, but also give a lot back. Not in words, but in deeds. People appreciate that. Just ask colleagues who have been working here for years."

Human scale is paramount

Although TBS-SVA is fully professionalizing, the human touch remains paramount. "We are growing, but want to continue to do so with attention. Whether you come in through an apprenticeship or have years of experience - as an employer, we think it's important to see not only the job, but the person behind it."

That no-nonsense mentality aligns well with the practice. "Some colleagues started on the shop floor and now have other roles within the company. You get the space here to find your own path. As long as you show that you are going for it, we are behind you."

If you are looking for a place where you can grow without hassle, and where colleagues are ready for each other - TBS-SVA is the right place. Just a company where you can progress - and where you can be yourself.