Reinder Roos has been working as a consultant at Delta Pi since 2016. His expertise includes performance management, risk management, and asset management—a versatile asset. How does he view his profession? And how has he developed? "Thinking about a client's true needs and analyzing them based on a clear structure is what makes us so strong."
How did you end up at Delta Pi?
I previously worked at Alstom, a company specializing in rail transport. While working for the Amsterdam metro, I met a colleague from Delta Pi who told me they challenged each other professionally. That appealed to me, because previously, I was primarily focused on meeting paperwork requirements. At Delta Pi, I found the opportunity to expand my horizons beyond the rail sector and further develop myself
What projects are you currently working on?
I work on several large and meaningful projects, such as the failure probability analysis for the Haringvliet locks. My role is to periodically demonstrate whether the barrier complies with the Water Act: does the lock function, or not (if absolutely necessary)? I do this using a very comprehensive set of analyses that must be updated twice a year. This way, we know that the lock not only complies after completion, but that we will remain dry even after many years of service and major replacements of subsystems. These projects are socially relevant and offer me the opportunity to make a real impact
What talents do you need in your profession?
I also teach risk management on behalf of Delta Pi at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. There, I've noticed that students often skip steps or jump to conclusions without proper substantiation. But in my profession, you have to be able to conduct an analysis based on a fixed structure. You also need to be able to think conceptually and analyze theoretically. Moreover, as a consultant, you shouldn't just be behind your laptop; you also need to be able to stand in front of a group and gather input, for example, during a risk-management session
What have you learned yourself this past year?
My first time leading a project focused on risk management has made me a versatile expert. The biggest lesson I learned was correctly applying and explaining the risk management process within the project. This means everyone knows their own responsibilities when it comes to risks. This helps me ensure that when risks are identified, I can immediately determine whether it's for us or the contractor. This makes the process more efficient and effective
How do you stay informed about the latest developments in your field?
At Delta Pi, we have "Ready for Tomorrow" days, where we challenge each other and discuss new topics. We brainstorm, discuss, and give presentations. We recently held a theme day on Mendix and Python to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the programming world. I'm also a board member of the Dutch Association for Risk Analysis and Business Reliability, where we organize lectures on current topics. All colleagues are welcome to attend
What is typical of Delta Pi?
Equality. There are seniors and juniors, but in meetings, that doesn't matter as long as you provide input. You're assessed on the merits, and every contribution is taken seriously. The directors are also cooperative. We have a flat organizational structure and an open work environment
How do you see yourself in five years?
"I'll still be working here. I'm constantly striving to improve my skills and to think about how I can best contribute to society. That's why I joined Rutger Bregman's School of Moral Ambition, where I and a group of others consider how I can add lasting social value to my work. Integrating that idealism here at Delta Pi would be a good fit for me."
What type of person should a new colleague be?
We need a breath of fresh air, so we're open to all types of people. As long as you're knowledgeable. Thinking about a customer's real needs and analyzing them based on a clear structure is what makes us so strong
