Raf Lowette has been working for H.Essers for more than two decades. During that time, he has weathered many storms and witnessed the growth of our company firsthand. In this interview, you will discover how his story began and how deep his connection with the organization is.

Raf’s office is a mini museum: it is decorated with photos of warehouses, trucks, and archive photos that reflect the history of the organization. It immediately becomes clear that Raf is part of H.Essers, and that H.Essers is part of Raf: “In everything I do, I feel like I’m doing it for my own company.”

When did you start at H.Essers?
Raf: “In 2006, I got my permanent contract and started at the car wash. Those were evening shifts from 5:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. That’s how I gradually worked my way up, and over the years I’ve done many other things. For example, I drove the Terberg for six years and did all kinds of things within Fleet for 11 years: from maintaining the yard, driving trucks to and from the inspection, … I even played Santa Claus for our Christmas films.”

What do you do now?
Raf: “I’ve been managing the Purchase warehouse for over two years now. I keep track of inventory, prepare things for people who need something, carry out repairs, and much more. I was ready for a new challenge, and my predecessor was about to retire. So I made the switch. I’ve also ended up in a really nice team here, which I appreciate. Besides, it’s always nice when people come by the warehouse. I have a chat with them, and that way you stay up to date with what’s going on.”

“I also manage a technical warehouse in Winterslag, where mainly racking material is stored. Now you can practically play soccer in there, which is a big difference from two years ago. I asked to manage more than just the Purchase warehouse because I wanted an extra challenge and to prove that I could do it.”

How is your relationship with our company?
Raf: “Take a look at all the photos in my office. When I tell you that my father also worked at H.Essers, you probably know enough. I really like it here! If I didn’t feel comfortable here, I would have looked for another employer long ago. I don’t like getting up in the morning reluctantly.”

“You know, sometimes I also bring small items, lanyards, etc., to other warehouses in Genk. And when I’m driving anyway, I also drive to nearby warehouses that need something. It might take me an hour longer, but it saves other people work. Or I call around so that no unnecessary trips are made. That’s more efficient. I do that because I feel that H.Essers is also a little bit my own company.“

”Personally, I also have a good relationship with Noël Essers. Before the explosive growth, we used to see each other regularly, and he would sometimes ask me if I wanted to help him. That naturally creates a bond. If you’re in his phone, you can call yourself his buddy.”

“Finally, I would like to add that even my private life is connected to H.Essers; this is where I met my wife.”

Why do you work at H.Essers?
Raf: “After all these years, this company is close to my heart because I understood very early on that everyone knew me by name and that you are appreciated here for who you are.”