"A 'typical' working day is a day I've yet to come across in my career at Gaastra, because every day differs from the last."
Questions to Xander Kooij, Controller, Gaastra
Describe a typical working day
A 'typical' working day is a day I've yet to come across in my career at Gaastra, because every day differs from the last. Sometimes I have to deal with financial affairs, such as delivering periodic reports; sometimes I have to supply information about the business so that decisions can be taken; and at other times I'm busy supervising the finance team.
Describe your background and experience
I studied Business Administration for Banking and Insurance. This was a combined degree at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the InHolland University of Applied Sciences. After graduating I started working as an Assistant Controller at McG Retail. A year and a half later I took on the role of Controller at McG Retail. From this excellent springboard I opted for the role of Controller at Gaastra. After building up some experience in the retail division I thought it would add value to gain experience of the wholesale activities as well.
What do you like about your job?
I find the role of Controller interesting because you act as the central coordinator between different business processes. I enjoy the fact that, alongside the financial disciplines, I'm involved with several other company departments like Purchasing and Sales & Marketing. Ultimately, all the results of the activities within these disciplines come into the financials.
What do you like about working at the McGregor Fashion Group?
The tremendous energy within the McGregor Fashion Group NV is infectious. It's great to be surrounded by enthusiastic and motivated colleagues in a go-ahead company.
What has been your biggest challenge to date at the McGregor Fashion Group?
There are several challenges I could mention. But if I have to pick one, it has to be the time when I started as Controller at Gaastra. The budget for the following year had to be delivered within 2 months, and the books had to be ready for the annual audit within 4 months. And this was while I was still getting to grips with the new role: a challenging time!
What personal contribution that you have made to the success of the McGregor Fashion Group are you most proud of?
Ensuring that Gaastra's financial affairs are sound.
The information I supply to the MT is the starting point for quite a few strategic decisions.
