Hi, I'm Herman.
What I like doing most is figuring out how something can be better, simpler or smarter. I think technically, but outside the box. And once the concept is there, I want to see it finished. Until it runs.
I've been a mechanical engineer and project manager since 2013. In 2016 I started my own business, back then as Koobs Projecten. I work for machine builders, OEMs and manufacturers in Europe, Asia and North America. But if you want to build something in Antarctica or Zanzibar, I'm the last person to say no.
I studied mechanical engineering at Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, specialising in mechanical engineering and mechatronics. I did my graduation project at Antriol (Gispen) in Taicang, near Shanghai. That's where I gained my first international experience and learned a lot about working across cultures. In 2022 I moved to Sweden, and these days I travel a lot.
What works in one industry often works in another too. That crossover produces solutions you wouldn't easily find within one industry.
Titles mean little to me. Results everything.
I once heard through the grapevine that I was "the only one who ever dared to push back on the technical manager". I didn't get that compliment to my face, which is exactly why I believe it.
Why do I do what others don't? I'm not part of the hierarchy and I have no career within your company to protect. So if something isn't right, I say so. Even to the boss. Preferably wrapped in a joke, because then it becomes a conversation, not a fight.
My office has no fixed address.My phone number is always the same.
I'm based in Sweden, work wherever the work is, and I'm often on the road. You won't notice a thing: you call the same number and I pick up.
"Herman asks the right (critical) questions at the right time to keep the assignment moving efficiently, knows what he's talking about and communicates well. We didn't notice the 1,000 km between us at all."
What I love
- The problem behind the problem.
- Decisions that actually get made.
- People who dare to let go.
- A handover that's right down to the last detail.
What I don't like
- Meetings without a decision.
- Temporary solutions that have been permanent for years.
- Reports that end up in a drawer.
- "That's just how we do things here."
Dutch, English and German are no problem. My Swedish is good enough to get myself out of trouble. My Chinese is sadly limited to sweet and sour pork. And whenever I can, I speak my local Dutch dialect.
Just give me a call.
Tell me what needs to be built. Within one conversation, you'll know whether I can help.
Ideally I'm there from the first sketch. Deadline already breathing down your neck? Call anyway.