At Motopp, we are proud of our talented newcomers who are fully committed to contributing to the Dutch labor market. Armin Asgharpour (38) and Amir Farahaniolia (29) are two of these driven professionals who recently started at our partner FrieslandCampina. They are working within the OT Capability team on a change automation project, aimed at improving OT-related processes and associated safety considerations in FrieslandCampina’s factories.

We spoke with Armin and Amir about their experiences working at FrieslandCampina since April.

During a recent visit to the FrieslandCampina cheese factory in Workum, they had the unique opportunity to see the advanced operational technologies and processes that drive the cheese production line up close. From the early stages of milk processing to the final stages of packaging, the entire factory process is about precision, efficiency and compliance with the highest quality standards. The visit was aimed at gaining valuable insights into the application of operational technology in the food production chain. In their roles, Amir and Armin are confronted with the importance of continuous improvement and technological advancement of the processes. Such a visit helps to create a better connection between the requirements on paper and in practice. The men spoke to various stakeholders in the cheese factory and got to know FrieslandCampina better.

Amir: “I am grateful to the FrieslandCampina team for their hospitality and for providing such an enlightening experience. As a member of the OT Capability team, I am especially impressed by the seamless integration of advanced technology with traditional cheesemaking techniques. The factory’s dedication to innovation, combined with strict hygiene and safety protocols, ensures the production of superior quality cheese products.”

About Amir

Amir is 29 years old, originally from Iran and currently lives in Utrecht. He recently got married and already had a bachelor’s degree in engineering and technology when he came to the Netherlands. The job at FrieslandCampina offers Amir a new perspective and a place to shape his talent.

Although Amir is new to OT, his background in mechanical engineering helps him to master this role: “I work as a ServiceNow consultant, but our tasks are currently mainly focused on supporting the operations technology teams in the factories. We assess the assets and knowledge of each factory and document our findings. It is a large project and we are still in the early stages, where we are also documenting how we work together.”

Armin has also been appointed as a ServiceNow consultant at FrieslandCampina. This is not only about understanding the technical aspects, but especially about their ability to move around in the subject matter and to support the operations technology teams well in this.

About Armin

Armin also comes from Iran, lives with his family in Arnhem and has a degree in electrical engineering. With this background, he previously developed a passion for the IT sector. In his country of origin, he gained extensive experience in the telecom sector for more than 10 years. Armin believes that his knowledge, combined with his professionalism and perseverance, will add value to the Dutch business community.

Armin on his role at FrieslandCampina: “The challenges and dynamics of the project we are involved in are very interesting. Every day is different and there are plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. It is great that we are fully involved in shaping the improvement project.”

Visit to the factory

Armin: “The support we receive from Motopp is incredibly valuable. They not only help us with technical knowledge, but also with soft skills such as problem solving and communication. This has helped us become more confident in our new roles.”

Amir: “The people we work with are very open and supportive in general. The working atmosphere is very different from Iran, there is no clear hierarchy here and managers are very approachable.”

How diversity and inclusivity pays off

The efforts of newcomers like Amir and Armin within FrieslandCampina demonstrate the value of integrating newcomers into the Dutch labour market. Armin and Amir’s personal experiences and efforts at FrieslandCampina serve as an inspiring example of how companies can utilise the skills of newcomers in the current tight Dutch labour market.

Amir: “The future is hopeful, full of challenges and good feelings for me. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given and look forward to what the future brings.”

Armin: “With the support of Motopp and FrieslandCampina, I feel ready to contribute to this ambitious project. I am excited about the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead.”

At Motopp, we remain committed to an inclusive labor market in which everyone has the opportunity to use their talents. We wish Amir and Armin much success and look forward to their further contributions to the project at FrieslandCampina.